Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
926. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the number of new Garda public order unit vans that came into the fleet in the years 2023 and to date in 2024; if further Garda public order unit vans will come into the fleet later this year; and the number of these vans that have been withdrawn during this period, in tabular form. [15098/24]
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 at the end of December 2023 there were 30 Public Order vans attached to the Garda fleet, and that currently there are 31 Public Order vans nationwide. I am advised that no Public Order vans were removed from the fleet in 2023 and to date in 2024.
I am further advised that nine Public Order vans have been ordered by Garda Fleet Management for allocation by the end of 2024. I am also informed that the purchase and allocation of vehicles is monitored and reviewed on a continual basis to ensure the best match with operational requirements.
