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Garda Stations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020

Wednesday, 3 June 2020

Ceisteanna (385)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

385. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the estimated cost of installing a minimum of two defibrillators in each Garda station that is opened on a 24/7 basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9233/20]

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Freagraí scríofa

The Deputy will be aware that in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána.

I have requested information from An Garda Síochána on the matter raised and will write directly to the Deputy when it is received.

The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to your recent Parliamentary Questions (No. 385 of 3 June 2020) where you sought a response to the the estimated cost of installing a minimum of two defibrillators in each Garda station that is opened on a 24/7 basis.
The Deputy will recall that my predecessor as Minister, Charlie Flanagan T.D., had sought the information from the Garda authorities and undertook to contact you again when the information was to hand.   
I am now advised that the unit capital cost for a defibrillator is estimated at €1,300 (inclusive of VAT).  This cost has been identified on the basis of the outcome of a tender competition for defibrillators conducted by the HSE on behalf of the State.  I am informed that there are at present 116 Garda Stations open on a 24/7 basis.
It is estimated that the capital cost of the defibrillators plus the installation cost in the 116 Garda Stations would amount to approximately €450,000.  In addition, it may be necessary to train a cohort of Gardaí in the use of such defibrillators but it is not possible to give a cost for such training at this time.  
I hope this information is of assistance.
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