Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 July 2021
134. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the extent to which the strength of An Garda Síochána at present is sufficient to meet the policing requirements in all areas throughout the country both urban and rural; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36758/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the general management and administration of the Garda organisation under the Garda Síochána Act 2005. This includes the deployment of members of An Garda Síochána throughout the State. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions.
I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of policing priorities and crime trends, to ensure their optimum use. I further understand that it is a matter for the Divisional Chief Superintendent to determine the optimum distribution of duties among the personnel available to him or her, having regard to the profile of each area within the Division and its specific needs.
An Garda Síochána has been allocated an unprecedented budget of €1.952 billion for 2021. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff. As a result, Garda numbers are now approximately 14,500 Garda members and over 3,000 Garda staff nationwide.
Taken together, this increase in the number of Garda members and staff is delivering a significant growth in operational policing hours nationwide.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant capital investment is being made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million for the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This will ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet.
While Budget 2021 provided for the recruitment of up to 620 new Gardaí this year, the Commissioner has indicated that, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, recruitment is likely to be of the order of 450 trainees spread over four intakes in 2021. However, 2021 intake numbers will be kept under review, in particular having regard to progress against COVID-19 and the vaccination rollout. The first intake (of 150) commenced training in the Garda College on 24 May. The remaining scheduled commencement dates, subject to public health restrictions, are 19 July 2021, 20 September 2021 and 15 November 2021.
