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Garda Strength.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2004

Tuesday, 9 November 2004

Ceisteanna (245)

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

307 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to expand the mounted police division of the Garda Síochána; and the current strength of same. [27921/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I have been informed by the Garda authorities which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that there are no plans to expand the Garda mounted unit.

The unit was established in March 1998 with one sergeant, six gardaí and a complement of six horses. As part of the approval to establish the unit, a review of the unit was conducted after the initial two years. The unit is a national resource in support of regional policing requirements. The current strength stands at 14, all ranks, and 13 horses.

A new competition will commence in the near future to return the strength of the unit to its authorised strength of 18 members, all ranks. In this regard, I am informed that one sergeant is currently serving on a UN mission overseas and is due to return in May 2005.

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