Garda Transport

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 February 2012

Wednesday, 29 February 2012

Ceisteanna (152)

Michael Healy-Rae

Ceist:

155 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether gardaí will have to revert to using bicycles to patrol their areas in the absence of any transport being provided to them, in view of the fact that a total of 71 marked patrol cars were taken out of the system in the past six months after reaching the 300,000 km limit and no new cars were purchased to replace them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11760/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter)

The provision and deployment of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that an order for 40 new Garda cars has recently been placed and that these vehicles are currently being rolled out. In addition, a tendering process is under way to put in place a contract which will allow for the provision of further Garda vehicles. This is a matter that will be pursued in the light of An Garda Síochána's operational priorities and the availability of financial resources.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that a full and comprehensive policing service is being delivered throughout the country. They have also confirmed that the relevant policing arrangements are being kept under on-going review to ensure that optimum use is made of Garda resources.