Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 100: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of An Garda Síochána at the latest date for which figures are available broken down by full members, those who have attested but not yet concluded their training, those in training, the expected number that will be recruited in 2009, the anticipated numbers at each above category at the end of 2009 and the number of members of the force who are expected to retire during 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7601/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of attested members of An Garda Síochána on 31 January 2009, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 14,391. The number of recruits in training (Phases 1 to 3) at that date was 1,045. The number of probationer gardaí who have been attested but have not yet graduated (ie not yet completed Phases 4 and 5) at that date was 825 and it is anticipated the majority of these probationers will complete their training in 2009. This figure is included in the overall strength of the force as at 31 January 2009. It is further anticipated that approximately 944 Student gardaí will be attested during 2009.

In relation to retirements, it is anticipated that approximately 400 members of An Garda Síochána (all ranks) will retire in 2009 which, coupled with the existing strength and future attestations, will result in an estimated attested strength in An Garda Síochána of over 14,900 on 31 December 2009. Future recruitment to An Garda Síochána will take place in line with overall Government policy.