John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 218: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the situation in relation to supply of protective gear, batons, stab vests and so on; if same are available to all operational Gardaí; and the reason there appears to be restrictions in relation to supply to student Gardaí while attached to stations. [19463/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The detailed allocation of Garda resources, including equipment, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is Garda policy to issue anti stab/ballistic vests to all Garda personnel. On joining the force a student Garda undergoes a two year comprehensive education and training programme, and student Gardaí are issued with anti stab/ballistic vests prior to commencing phase two of that training. I am also informed by the Garda authorities that it is Garda policy to issue batons to student Gardaí when they reach phase three of their training.

An Garda Síochána are currently training all operational personnel in the proper and safe use of the new retractable baton which will issue to members following the successful completion of training. This baton will replace the one currently on issue.