Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 334: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will set out the policy in relation to the issuing of stab vests to student Gardaí; if it is the case that no stab vests are issued; the reason for this; and if he will immediately review it in the interests of the safety of student Gardaí. [17842/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware that the provision of equipment to members of An Garda Síochána is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is the policy of An Garda Síochána to issue anti-stab/ballistic vests to all Garda personnel, including student Gardaí. I am further informed by the Garda authorities that the deployment of anti-stab/ballistic vests is taking place on a phased basis and, in this context, initial priority was given to Gardaí already engaged in operational duties. Currently all student Gardaí are being issued with anti-stab/ballistic vests prior to commencing Phase 2 of their training.