Seán Ryan (Dublin North, Labour)
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Question 84: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to review the practice of providing members of the Garda Síochána as full-time drivers for Government Ministers, former Ministers and judicial figures in view of the significant commitment of Garda personnel required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10785/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Ministerial State cars are placed at the disposal of Government Ministers and others pursuant to a long standing arrangement and are supplied to the following: Taoiseach; Tánaiste; 13 Government Ministers; President; Chief Whip; Ceann Comhairle; Attorney General; Director of Public Prosecutions; Chief Justice; and former Taoisigh and Presidents.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that there are currently 73 gardaí attached to the ministerial pool of which 56 are allocated on a full-time basis as drivers for the ministerial fleet. The remaining 17 gardaí are on a relief panel and cover periods of absences through annual leave and illness.

These drivers are tasked with providing close personal protection to Government Ministers and other designated protected VIP's, in addition to their driving duties. There are currently no plans to replace them with civilian drivers.