Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
856. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if funding has been approved in 2024 for the replacement of the inflatable boats within the Garda water unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14191/24]
View answerAs 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 boats or specialist equipment for the Garda Water Unit. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
The Garda Water Unit is a national resource based at Santry Garda Station, Dublin Metropolitan Region and Garycastle, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as of January 2024, the latest date for when figures are available, there were six inflatable boats attached to the Garda Water Unit.
I am advised that these boats meet the current requirements of the Unit and that the equipment fitted is regularly serviced and upgraded when necessary. I am further advised that there are currently no plans to replace these boats.
