Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The Deputy correctly states that the programme for Government commits to a strong and efficient police force and it is our commitment to maintain such a force. With regard to numbers we are considering the implications of the EU and IMF agreement and I have an obligation in my Department to meet the financial estimates and not to over-reach in that regard. The Garda Commissioner must also meet his financial targets. I cannot say at this stage exactly what the position will be with Garda numbers at the end of this year. As it stands, there is an obligation to effect the reduction which the Deputy's party committed this State to in the agreement with the EU and IMF.

With regard to recruitment issues, in February last year the former Minister, Dermot Ahern, advertised for Garda recruits and by June there were 400 on a potential panel to go to Templemore. Without making an announcement, the former Minister put all 400 into cold storage. Where there is a commitment to reduce Garda numbers and the finances of the State are constrained, I cannot at this stage indicate when new recruitment might take place other than to indicate that I am anxious that there would be an influx of new young people into the Garda force over a period. I do not see any likelihood of new recruitment during 2011. Beyond that all I can say is the matter is under review.

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