Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 743: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the courses which have been transferred from the Garda training college; the dates on which the transfers occurred; the courses which he or the Garda Commissioner plan to transfer out of the college and the dates on which the transfers will take effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1307/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that to date no training courses have been transferred from the Garda college. As part of my proposal to increase the strength of the force to 14,000, in line with the Government's commitment set out in An Agreed Programme for Government, each quarter, for the next three years, around 274 recruits will be taken into the college, amounting to almost 1,100 recruits each year. To facilitate this accelerated recruitment, a significant enhancement of the Garda college facilities is underway.

A new four-storey block will be built which will provide for central administration and free up the teaching blocks for classroom use. New library and gymnasium facilities will also be provided and existing catering and canteen facilities will be expanded. The plans for all of this are being advanced by the Office of Public Works and construction will be completed by the end of this year in time for the peak inflow of new recruits to the college. Work will also be undertaken to relocate the tactical training facility, which will be displaced by the new building.

In addition, the Garda Commissioner is to temporarily move the majority of in-service training out of the Garda college to a new location. This will enable the Garda college to concentrate mainly on training new recruits arising from the accelerated recruitment campaign. The OPW advertised in October 2004 for expressions of interest in the provision of the new accommodation for in-service training, and is now considering the proposals received. This outsourced facility will provide accommodation for up to 100 gardaí, with classroom and lecture facilities.

I am advised that It is proposed to deliver management, supervisory and continuous professional development programmes outside of the Garda college with effect from 4 April 2005.