Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Quite frankly, it is an increased demand on overtime having regard to the very serious criminal situation, particularly in this city of Dublin. The Garda is anxious to ensure every available resource is at its disposal, particularly in the context of gangland matters. Members are aware that particularly in parts of Dublin, there is an unprecedented challenge in terms of organised crime, including an escalation in gangland violence. We always have the threat from international terrorism, which is something of which we should be mindful in the context of European Union neighbours.

Overtime expenditure in 2016 was €91 million, compared with €56 million in 2015. As I stated, the expenditure this year is expected to be over €130 million. It is important to note, however, that €28 million of this increase is accounted for by the cost of the Labour Court agreement on Garda pay. It is important to note that overtime cannot be taken in isolation to other resources available to An Garda Síochána. There needs to be a scheme of management in order to ensure overtime does not escalate on an annual basis in the way it has in recent years. That is particularly offset by the ongoing programme of recruitment. I was in Templemore in September and saw 180 newly attested, ambitious and energetic gardaí, all of whom have been allocated to stations across the country. I look forward to being there next week to witness a further 200 graduating. As the recruitment continues apace and the newly attested Garda members take their positions across the country, the question of the escalating overtime must be considered in that arrangement.