Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 April 2022
365. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Justice if additional resources will be provided for Garda divisions such as Cavan and Monaghan in view of the unique policing demands in the Border region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19151/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible under the law for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including the recruitment and training of Garda members and staff. The Commissioner is also responsible, under Section 33 of the Act, for the deployment of Garda members and staff throughout the State. As Minister, I play no role in these independent functions.
I am advised, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continuous review to ensure their optimum use in light of a number of factors, including, but not limited to, operational demand and emerging crime trends.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that as of 28 February 2022, the latest date for which the information is available, there were 382 Gardaí assigned to the Cavan/Monaghan Division. This is an increase of 20% compared to December 2015, when there were 318 Gardaí assigned to the Division.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that there has been an increase recently in supervisory resources within the Division with the allocation of 6 additional Sergeants. This has included the assignment of three Sergeants to Monaghan District, two to Cavan and one to Bailieborough. The Deputy will also be aware that the recently launched Armed Support Unit (ASU) in the area has enhanced and supported border policing and security.
