Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 507: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí that could be released from office work if civilian staff were provided; the way in which other Departments have increased civilian staff dramatically in view of so-called limits (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35610/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I refer the Deputy to my response to Parliamentary Question No. 557 of Tuesday, 8 November 2005 which outlined the position on civilianisation within the Garda Síochána. The Government has since approved my proposals for the funding of a 14-point anti-crime programme in 2006. A record €1,290 million is being provided to underpin this programme — an increase of €146 million or 13% when compared to 2005. At the heart of this programme, which will be sustained, targeted and comprehensive, is high-visibility policing for communities throughout the State.

This very substantial increase in resources will allow for full implementation of the Garda policing plan for 2006 and will provide for, among other things, an accelerated civilianisation programme for the Garda Síochána. Arising from a decision by the Government to redeploy surplus staff from the Department of Agriculture and Food to the force, the equivalent of up to 300 full-time gardaí will be freed up for front-line outdoor policing duties. This programme, which commenced in recent weeks with the deployment of Department of Agriculture and Food staff in Castlebar to the Garda information services centre, also based in Castlebar, will go nationwide in the course of 2006.

Funding has also been provided for the continued recruitment of 2,000 gardaí throughout 2006. This will lead to a combined organisational strength of both attested gardaí and recruits in training of 14,000 in 2006. The Deputy can be assured that the additional gardaí will be deployed in front-line, visible and effective policing.