Paul Donnelly
Ceist:
508. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice if funding has been secured for the purchase of additional dogs for the Garda dog unit in 2021; and if funding has been secured for the purchase of additional horses for the Garda mounted unit in 2021. [29329/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra
I have requested a report on the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities, however this was not available in time. I will write to the Deputy once the information is to hand.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question Number 508 which was for answer on 1 June 2021, where you requested information regarding if funding has been secured for the purchase of additional dogs for the Garda dog unit in 2021; and if funding has been secured for the purchase of additional horses for the Garda mounted unit in 2021.
You will recall that the information could not be obtained in the time available and I undertook to consult with An Garda Síochána and contact you again when the information was available.
As you will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible under the law for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including any decisions in relation to the allocation and control of Garda equipment and resources. As Minister for Justice, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that animals attached to both the Garda dog and mounted units are purchased as the need arises when replacing existing animals who are retired from service. I am further advised that as part of the first phase of the roll out of the dog unit to the regions it is anticipated to provide 10 dogs to the North Western Region in 2021 with an estimated cost of approximately €40,000-€45,000. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is no requirement for extra funding for the purchase of additional horses this year.
I trust this information is of assistance.
