Jim O'Callaghan
Question:
436. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice the number of new marked Garda cars and vans that joined the Garda dog unit in 2023; the number of those vehicles that withdrew from the dog unit during 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2508/24]
View answer
I have contacted An Garda Síochána for the information requested by the Deputy. Regrettably this information was not available in time and I will write to the Deputy again once the information is to hand.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 436 of 23 January 2023 where you sought: “To ask the Minister for Justice the number of new marked Garda cars and vans that joined the Garda Dog Unit in 2023; the number of those vehicles that withdrew from the Dog Unit during 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter”.
As you will recall, I had sought the information you requested from the Garda authorities and undertook to contact you again once the information was to hand.
The unprecedented allocation of over €2 billion for 2023 and a further €2.31 billion for 2024 to An Garda Síochána demonstrates the Government's commitment to ensuring An Garda Síochána has provision for the equipment, technology, facilities, fleet and personnel it needs to carry out vital policing work.
As you 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 the purchase, allocation, and effective and efficient use of Garda vehicles. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that at the end of December 2023 there were fifteen vans and three 4x4 vehicles attached to the Garda Dog Unit. I am further advised that 1 van was allocated to the unit in 2023. No vehicles were removed from the Dog Unit during that period.
I hope this information is of assistance.
