Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I fully recognise that this is an issue of particular concern. Garda recruitment effectively ended in 2010 and after that there was a continuous decline in the Garda's strength. That undoubtedly impacted on local communities, but we are now rebuilding the police force. Templemore was reopened and it is increasing recruitment every year. It is operating to full capacity. If I am not mistaken, the Minister for Justice and Equality has committed to a figure of 21,000 for the overall Garda workforce by 2021, comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. Those will be the resources that the Garda Commissioner will have to deploy in the most effective way to support the real concerns that the Deputy is highlighting.

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