Vol. 575 No. 3
104 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the increase in the number of the force allowed for in the provision in his Estimate for 2004 for the Garda Síochána and, particularly, in regard to the provision for salaries, wages and expenses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28230/03]
The commissioner has projected, based on the anticipated rate of retirement, that the maximum authorised force strength of 12,200 will be achieved during 2004. Provision has been made in the 2004 Estimates to facilitate payment of these extra members of the force. The Estimate provision for salaries, wages and allowances has increased from €686.912 million in 2003 to €752.824 million for 2004, an increase of almost 10%.
