Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect of driver training, gardaí undertake a wide variety of roles involving different skills sets and driving is one that has been the subject of commentary. All members of An Garda Síochána are not required to have advanced driving skills but I am informed by the Garda authorities that they have introduced a five-level suite of CBD courses with each level specifically catering for a required knowledge-based skills set. It involves a three-week course. I am advised by the Garda Commissioner - and I believe this issue was mentioned in the course of his recent engagement with the committee - that 6,000 members are qualified to drive using blue lights and sirens having completed the standard driving course CBD level 2. There are varying degrees of skills and the Garda authorities are anxious to ensure there is a greater level of the optional course available. This is important in the context of the increased resourcing for the Garda fleet and the fact that over the current six-year period, a sum of €46 million has been available for investment in that fleet. If we are ensuring the Garda has a modern, up-to-date fleet of vehicles it is important that there would be appropriate driving skills. The CBD courses at level 2 and higher are available and over the course of next year, there will be a greater level of concentration on this, with further development of this important skills training.

On the body cameras, I am keen that the Garda would adopt this new and advanced technology. I have discussed the matter with the Garda Commissioner, and the issue was mentioned specifically in recent Garda reports. I cannot say for certain if the Garda Commissioner's budget for next year will allow for the roll-out of body cameras. I expect that over the next few years it will form the basis of An Garda Síochána's plans but I cannot say that it will commence next year.

As regards civil legal aid, significant additional funding has been available to the Legal Aid Board in recent years and the total budget for next year will be in excess of €40 million. I acknowledge that there is an issue with waiting lists in some parts of the country and I accept what the Deputy said about improvements in some areas. This is closely monitored. Having regard to the fact that it is a demand-led scheme, every effort will be made to ensure that not only do we get value for money but also that waiting lists can be kept to a minimum. The more than €40 million for next year is a sizeable figure.