Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
310. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice the number of unmarked Garda roads policing unit cars that came into the fleet in 2023 and to-date in 2024; the number of unmarked Garda RPU cars withdrawn from the fleet during same period in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28096/24]
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.
On 30 June 2024 there were 3,530 vehicles in the Garda fleet, the highest ever and a 35% increase since 2015.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the table below, sets out the number of unmarked cars allocated to and removed from the Roads Policing Unit in 2023 and in 2024, up to 31 May 2024, the latest date for when figures are available.
|
Roads Policing Unit |
Allocated |
Removed |
|
2023 |
12 |
4 |
|
2024 |
0 |
2 |
The purchase and allocation of vehicles by An Garda Síochána is made on the basis of identified operational demands, the availability of resources and is reviewed on a continual basis.
It is important to note that road traffic legislation is enforced as part of the day-to-day duties of members of An Garda Síochána, as well as through a programme of high-visibility road safety and enforcement operations carried out in partnership with other state agencies, in order to make our roads safer for all. All frontline Gardaí contribute to policing our roads and keeping them safe and, on average, 25% of roads policing enforcement is carried out by regular members, with the exception of drug/drink driving checks, 75% of which are carried out by regular members.
I am informed that the allocation of vehicles is made on the basis of identified operational demands and the availability of resources.
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.
