Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 March 2025
154. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Justice the number of Gardaí currently assigned in the Castlerea, Roscommon and Ballinasloe Garda districts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12666/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to fight crime and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda organisation is central to this policy. The Garda Vote in Budget 2025 saw unprecedented funding of over €2.48 billion for this year, a 27% increase since 2020 which is supporting the continued recruitment of Garda members and staff.
While by law the distribution of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, I engage regularly with him to ensure our Gardaí have the resources they need.
When allocating and transferring Garda members to and from any Division, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan, population stats, crime trends and ongoing Garda operations.
The Commissioner keeps the allocation of Garda resources under continued review to ensure their optimum use.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that as of 31 January 2025, the latest date for which figures are available, there was a total Garda workforce of almost 18,000 including staff and reserves.
There are 14,167 Garda members across the country which is an increase of around 9% since 2015.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to the number of Gardaí assigned to Castlerea, Roscommon and Ballinasloe up to 31 January 2025 is publicly available and can be found at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/66833-garda-workforce/
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are currently 3 Garda members assigned to Ballinasloe, 10 to Castlerea, and 16 to Roscommon. Please note that this information is operational and subject to change.
