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An Garda Síochána

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 June 2022

Tuesday, 21 June 2022

Ceisteanna (683)

Jim O'Callaghan

Ceist:

683. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if funding will be provided for the replacement of the patrol boats within Garda water unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32339/22]

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Freagraí scríofa

As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including the allocation of resources. In addition, the Commissioner is the Accounting Officer for An Garda Síochána and is responsible for the decisions on future allocations and spending. As Minister, I have no direct role in the matter. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps these matters under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

The Deputy may be aware that the Garda Water Unit (GWU) is a national resource based at Santry Garda Station, Dublin Metropolitan Region, and Garycastle, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, and falls under the remit of Assistant Commissioner, Organised & Serious Crime. The operational control of the GWU is overseen by Detective Chief Superintendent, Operational Support Services. The GWU provide a full dive and marine capability throughout the State and respond to requests for assistance from within An Garda Síochána and other relevant agencies.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that the GWU presently has two patrol boats, four rigid inflatable boats and nine inflatable boats. I am informed that the boats allocated to the unit have met the present requirements of the Garda Water Unit to date, and the equipment fitted on the boats is regularly serviced and upgraded when necessary. I am further informed that both of the GWU patrol boats are dated from 2000 and 2006 respectively, the rigid inflatable boats were allocated to the Garda Water Unit in 2007 and the nine inflatable boats are dated from 2009 to 2012, which are replaced when no longer serviceable for GWU needs.

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