Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

On 30 April 2009, there were 322 attested reserve gardaí with a further 198 at various stages of training making a total of 520.

The Government is strongly committed to the development of the Garda Reserve. I am fully satisfied that the reserve provides, and will continue to provide, a valuable contribution to the Garda Síochána and to the many communities in which it operates. In particular, I wish to express my appreciation to the members of the reserve who serve on a voluntary basis.

An internal operational review of the Garda Reserve was carried out in 2008. Arising from this review, I understand the Garda Commissioner is examining certain proposals on enhancing the role of the Garda Reserve.

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