Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 50: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of specialist units currently established within the Garda Síochána; the numerical strength of each unit; when they were set up; the locations they draw their personnel from; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15639/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of each specialist unit within the Garda Síochána, as at 25 April 2006, is as set out hereunder.

It should be noted that some of the above units evolved from previous specialist units or bureaus of the Garda Síochána, some having been in operation since the foundation of the State and the force itself.

I should also mention the establishment, within the Garda Síochána, of a dedicated traffic corps in 2004, which had a strength of 630, all rank, as at 24 April 2006. Between now and 2008, the traffic corps will increase its numbers to a complement of 1,200 on the following phased basis: 2006 — 805; 2007 — 1,030; and 2008 — 1,200.

Recruitment to each specialist unit is by competitive selection. Competitions are advertised throughout the Garda Síochána by way of Garda headquarters directives.