Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have the figures in front of me for the division Garda numbers for December 2009 to now. There are more gardaí now in County Mayo than there were in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 and in 2009. I can go back further if the Deputy wishes. However, I am pleased that funding has been provided to maintain this high level of investment in the Garda workforce. This year a further 800 new Garda recruits will enter the Garda College. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during this year and 200 of these attested last month. Taking account of projected retirements, Garda numbers are on track to reach a total of 14,000 by the end of this year. The focus on investment in personnel is critical. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of gardaí. Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities, enhance Garda visibility within our communities and enable the Commissioner to provide additional resources across every division, including the Mayo division as new Garda recruits come onstream.

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