Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 February 2021
650. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the current strength of An Garda Síochána; the degree to which the strength of the force has increased in recent times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7140/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn Garda Síochána has been allocated an unprecedented budget of €1.952 billion for 2021. The significant level of funding provided over recent years is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff. As a result, there are now approximately 14,600 Garda members and over 3,000 Garda staff nationwide. This represents an increase of over 13% since 2015.
Budget 2021 will allow for the recruitment of up to 620 new Gardaí, subject to public health considerations regarding the operation of the Garda College. The Budget allocation also provides for an increase in supervisory ranks at Sergeant and Inspector level.
The Deputy will be aware that the Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and deployment of resources. As Minister, I have no role in decisions on such 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.
A detailed breakdown of Garda numbers by Division, District and Station is available on my Department’s website, in the interests of transparency and for the convenience of Deputies and the wider public. This information is updated every month with the latest data provided by An Garda Síochána. The Information on Garda members requested may be accessed at the following link:
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Workforce
