Garda Strength.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 February 2010

Thursday, 4 February 2010

Ceisteanna (37)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

35 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí at all ranks who have opted for retirement or early retirement in the past 12 months; the number of positions filled arising from their retirement; the number of positions remaining vacant arising from the embargo on recruitment; the number of personnel, by rank, whose positions still remain unfilled; if and when it is expected such positions will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5644/10]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The total number of members who retired, either voluntarily or on age grounds, from An Garda Síochána in 2009 was 723. During 2009 over 900 students were attested as sworn members of An Garda Síochána and as of the 31st December 2009 the total strength of the force was 14,547 with an additional 232 students in training. The Deputy will also be aware that I recently concluded negotiations with Minister for Finance for the filling of some 170 positions at management and supervisory levels in An Garda Síochána. The Commissioner is making the necessary arrangements to establish panels from which these vacancies will be filled.