Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 February 2021
625. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Justice the number of marked and unmarked Garda vans, 4x4 vehicles and jeeps attached to the Garda collision forensic investigation unit as of 1 February 2020 and 2021, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6679/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. In addition, the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. This includes responsibility for the allocation to the Garda fleet. As Minister, I have no role in these matters. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
I am pleased to have secured significant capital investment to be made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million specifically for the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime. The allocation of these and all other vehicles in the fleet is entirely a matter for the Commissioner and his management team.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are 10 unmarked vans assigned to the Garda Collision Forensic Investigation Unit at 3 February 2021. This was the same total for 3 February 2020.
