Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 181: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people murdered in each of the past 12 years through violence on the streets, or by whatever means; the number who have died in similar circumstances to date in 2006; if he is satisfied that sufficient effort is being made to control this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36361/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table shows the number of murder offences recorded and detected for each year from 1994 to date in 2006.

All killings, regardless of the circumstances involved, are the subject of a rigorous investigation by the Garda Síochána. The identification of the motive and the evidence available in its support are key elements of the investigation and prosecution process.

The personnel strength of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,765 on 8 September, 2006 compared with a total strength of 10,702 as at 30 June, 1997. The first group of trainees for the Garda Reserve are due to graduate in December. The Garda budget now stands at €1.3 billion, which represents an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.