Written answers

Thursday, 4 May 2006

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Garda Training

5:00 pm

Photo of Jim O'KeeffeJim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 199: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of the backlog in in-service firearms training; his views on whether the present arrangements are entirely inadequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16831/06]

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda Authorities that An Garda Síochána is actively progressing additional facilities for the provision of firearms training.

I have been further informed that while there was some backlog during the first quarter of 2006, it is expected that additional capacity will become available in the second half of the year and this will address the backlog.

Photo of Jim O'KeeffeJim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the indoor firing range in Garda headquarters has been out of action; if so, the length of time it has been so; when it will again be operational; and the arrangements which have been put in place to provide alternative facilities for training purposes. [16832/06]

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Garda Authorities have informed me that they discontinued use of the indoor firing range in Garda Headquarters on the 17th December, 2005. Alternative arrangements have been put in place to facilitate Garda training. For security reasons the details of these alternative arrangements cannot be released.

A report from a company with specialist expertise in this area to identify the work required to allow the facility to be re-opened is being prepared. Once the Commissioner has considered the report, I expect a proposal to be submitted to my Department.

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