Decisions in relation to the provision and allocation of Garda vehicles are a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the light of his identified operational demands and available resources. In that context, I am advised by the Garda authorities that the information requested by the Deputy is as shown in the attached table. In addition, I understand that the specific needs of the Tipperary Garda Division will be taken into account as new vehicles are being deployed.
Overall, I am conscious of the continuing pressures on the Garda fleet and, in that regard, I am particularly pleased to have secured a further €9m which will provide for the purchase of a significant number of new vehicles over the next nine months. This most recent investment will bring to €18m the total amount spent on the Garda fleet for the three years 2012 to 2014. This represents a very considerable financial investment in Garda transport, particularly at a time when the level of funding available across the public sector is severely limited. It is a clear indication of my commitment to ensure that, to the greatest extent possible, An Garda Síochána are provided with sufficient resources to enable them to deliver an effective and efficient policing service.
Details of Garda vehicles in Tipperary Division
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|
No.
|
Number of vehicles in Tipperary Division (As at 16/10/13)
|
51
|
Number of new vehicles allocated in 2013 (to 16/10/13)
|
13
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Number of new vehicles allocated in 2012
|
3
|
Number of vehicles withdrawn in 2013
(To 16/10/13)
|
7
|