Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 522: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the current age at which dogs in the Garda dog unit are kept in active service until the dog has to retire on age grounds; the last time this unit was increased; if any dog is due to retire within the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3880/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the average age at which a dog is retired from operational duties with the Garda Dog Unit is eight years old. I have also been advised that one dog is due to be retired during 2012. I am further informed that, following a selection, assessment and training process, two dogs were allocated to the Garda Dog Unit in 2011.

Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 523: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the current age at which horses in the Garda mounted unit are kept in active service until the horse has to retire on age grounds; the last time this unit was increased; if any horse is due to retire within the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3881/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the average age at which horses are retired from operational duties is eighteen years. I have also been advised that two horses are due to be retired in 2012. I am further informed that, following a selection, assessment and training process, two horses were allocated to the Garda Mounted Unit in 2011.