Verona Murphy
Ceist:487. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda recruits currently undergoing training in Templemore; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36317/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 18 September 2024
Ceisteanna (487)
Freagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under Section 26 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), including the recruitment and training of Garda members and staff. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions.
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 €2.35 billion to the Garda Vote this year, which is allowing for sustained and ongoing recruitment and investment in new equipment and new vehicles.
To assist with recruitment, the Government has increased the age of entry from 35 to 50, extended the retirement age to 62 and most recently increased the training allowance to €354. This represents an increase of over 92% in the last 12 months. The Government is determined that An Garda Síochána grows to 15,000 members and beyond.
To be of assistance I have contacted the Garda authorities and have been advised that, as of 13 September, the number of recruits undergoing training in the Garda College, Templemore is 434.
For the Deputy's information, two further intakes into the College are planned for this year as well as two further attestations of Probationer Gardaí. These attestations will be this month and in December.