James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. There is record funding of €2.14 billion for the Garda in budget 2023, which is an increase of €586 million or 38% since 2016. That is a very significant increase. That funding is going towards the recruitment of additional gardaí and the provision of resources, including equipment and vehicles. That is important for the Garda.

As of 31 March, there were 76 vehicles assigned to the Cavan-Monaghan division, including 53 Garda cars and 12 vans. That represents a 9% increase since 2020. All members of the Garda are community gardaí. We are very proud that it is a principle of the operation of the police force in this country. There is a designation of community gardaí for individuals within the Garda and who is designated as such, and how many are designated, are matters for the Garda Commissioner and his senior staff.

Funding for accommodation is provided by the Department but its provision is a matter for the Office of Public Works, OPW.

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