Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
923. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the number of unmarked Garda vans attached to the Cavan-Monaghan division in the years 2023 and to date in 2024; and the number of these vans withdrawn from this division during same period. [15095/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including the purchase, allocation, and effective and efficient use of Garda vehicles. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions.
The unprecedented allocation of over €2.35 billion for 2024 to An Garda Síochána demonstrates the Government's commitment to ensuring An Garda Síochána has provision for the equipment, technology, facilities, fleet and personnel it needs to carry out vital policing work.
There are now 3,513 vehicles in the Garda fleet, the highest ever and a 34% increase since 2015.
I am informed that there were seven unmarked vans attached to the Cavan/Monaghan Division at the end of December 2023. I am further informed that the number of unmarked vans assigned to the Division had increased to 8 by the end of March 2024. I am advised that no unmarked vans were removed from the Division in this timeframe.
I am further advised that on 31 March 2024, there were a total of 79 vehicles assigned to Cavan/Monaghan Division, which includes: 55 cars, 14 vans, 7 4x4, and 3 Motorcycles.
I am also informed that the allocation of vehicles is monitored and reviewed on a continual basis to ensure the best match with operational requirements.
