Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
924. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the number of detective sergeant posts that have been filled within the Cavan-Monaghan division in the years 2023 and to date in 2024, in tabular form. [15096/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the distribution of Garda members between the different Garda units and Divisions. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there have been no appointments to the position of Detective Sergeant within the Cavan-Monaghan Division in the year 2023 and to date in 2024.
I can, however, assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to building stronger, safer communities and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda Síochána is central to this policy. This commitment is demonstrated by the unprecedented provision of more than €2.3 billion to the Garda Vote this year, which is allowing for sustained and ongoing recruitment and investment in new equipment and new vehicles.
In addition to new recruits, the roll-out of the new Garda Operating Model will support the redeployment of Gardaí from non-core duties to front-line policing across the country. The new model will see larger Divisions with more resources, increased Garda visibility in communities, a wider range of locally delivered policing services, and a strong focus on community policing.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that as of 29 February 2024, the latest date for when figures are available, there was a total of 13,930 Garda members nationwide. This represents an increase of almost 9% since the end of December 2015. In addition, the civilianisation programme has freed up almost 900 Garda members from back office work for front line policing work since 2015.
Information in relation to the allocation of Gardaí by Division and Station can be found at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/bd777-an-garda-siochana-your-police-service-some-facts-and-figures/
