Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 510: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the cost of increasing the number of horses in the Garda mounted unit by an additional seven; the cost of increasing the number of dogs in the Garda dog unit by an additional seven; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15612/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Garda authorities that it would cost in the region of €42,000 to buy an additional seven horses for the Garda Mounted Unit. In addition, I understand that the accommodation currently available to the Unit is fully utilised and that it cannot cater for further horses at this stage. I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that the cost of purchasing dogs for the Garda Dog Unit will vary and depend, for example, on the breed and the expertise required. However, they have estimated generally that it would cost in the region of €14,000 to buy an additional seven dogs for the Garda Dog Unit.

The Deputy will appreciate that an increase in the number of Garda horses and dogs would result in a consequential increase in costs for the Units, including ongoing expenses such as food and veterinary services. It would also be the case that appropriate training would be required and this would give rise to further costs.