Matt Carthy
Question:1148. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí stationed in Irish diplomatic missions abroad, by rank and mission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1945/24]
View answerWednesday, 17 January 2024
Questions (1148)
Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including for the recruitment, training and deployment of Garda members. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
I am assured that the Commissioner keeps the allocation of these resources under continued review, in line with crime and population trends, to ensure their optimum use.
In accordance with Section 51 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Commissioner, subject to the agreement of the Government, can assign Garda members overseas as Liaison Officers, to engage with law enforcement agencies of other States.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that, as of 31 December 2023, there were 16 Garda members on overseas assignments with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), Interpol, Europol and MAOC(N), the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre. I am further informed there are fewer than 10 Garda Liaison Officers in various other locations.