I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number and type of vehicles currently available for use by members of An Garda Síochána are as follows:
Cars
|
Vans
|
Bikes
|
4×4’s
|
M/Buses
|
Lorries
|
Total
|
1639
|
245
|
209
|
92
|
56
|
6
|
2247
|
The Garda Fleet is currently undergoing a major investment programme and an expansion in specific areas which will target organised crime, public order and traffic in particular. The total spend for 2006 on the purchase of 1,378 new vehicles to upgrade the fleet was €27.45 million resulting in the renewal of over half of the entire Garda fleet in just a single year. Further investment is planned for this year including the purchase of additional motorbikes which will make a significant contribution to traffic law enforcement.
The more detailed information sought by the Deputy has been requested from the Garda Authorities and I will revert directly to the Deputy when it is to hand.