Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for giving me an opportunity to discuss a matter of national interest, one which has been the subject of considerable scrutiny, discussion and, I regret, misinformation in this House and beyond. I am reminded of some of the comments made by Deputy Mattie McGrath on Garda transportation and the Garda fleet. What is the current position regarding the upgrading of the Garda fleet and other equipment gardaí require in the performance of their daily duties? Is it not the case that the previous Fianna Fáil led Administration put Garda lives at risk by allowing many Garda vehicles to become so run down that they would have failed the national car test?

Following the comments of the Taoiseach during Leaders' Questions yesterday, what provision has the Minister made to upgrade the Garda fleet? Will the Minister comment on the position he inherited on taking office in respect of Garda vehicles and equipment? Will he outline what are his plans to correct the mess he inherited and the timeframe for doing so? What works does he have planned in this regard? I am disappointed, given the serious nature of this issue and the problems the Minister inherited, that no Fianna Fáil Party Deputies are present to bear witness to this discussion, especially given some of the comments that have been made on the issue.

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