Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 June 2012
126 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which he expects to be in a position to maintain the strength of An Garda Síochána in all areas throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30019/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the Commissioner is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout the organisation and I have no function in the matter. I am informed by the Garda authorities that, as of the latest date for which figures are readily available, the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána was 13,581.
What will ultimately determine the sustainable level of Garda numbers, and therefore establish when recruitment will recommence, is the level of budgetary provision that can be made for the Force. Difficult decisions will continue to have to be made, right across the public sector, in order to bring our public finances back into balance.The decision on when recruitment will re-commence will also take into account the rate of retirements in the Garda Síochána and Government targets, set in the context of the agreement with the EU and the IMF, to reduce the numbers of public servants.
