Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
848. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will consider the establishment of a new role within An Garda Síochána, namely community support Gardaí, modelled on the Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in the United Kingdom (details supplied); if he will consider empowering such officers with limited enforcement abilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30408/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis 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.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024, provides for the appointment of members of the Garda Reserve. The Reserve is a volunteer service drawn from individuals who seek to give back to their communities, who perform duty alongside full time Garda members, and work to keep people safe.
Reserve Gardaí are a key asset to An Garda Síochána as they provide support during policing operations, enhance ties with local communities, and bring with them a wide range of skills and talents.
While on duty Reserve Gardaí are granted policing powers by the Garda Commissioner. Under the supervision and support of full time Garda members, Reserves help to prevent crimes and to provide greater reassurance to the community.
My priority is to increase the number of Garda Reserves to 1,000 in the short term and once that level of membership is achieved to proceed towards our ultimate target of 2,000. It is my view that Garda Reserves have a huge contribution to make to policing in Ireland and achieving our recruitment targets is my immediate focus.
