Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 154: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda patrol cars in Galway City and county; the number likely to be decommissioned within the next year; his plans for the replacement of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15917/12]

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

The provision and deployment of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the context of his identified operational requirements.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are currently 91 vehicles attached to the Garda Galway Division of which 36 are marked patrol cars. Based on current usage, it is estimated that 13 marked cars may be decommissioned by the end of the year. One new patrol car has been allocated to date to the Galway Division in 2012.

The Garda authorities have also advised that an order for new Garda cars has recently been placed and that these vehicles are currently being rolled out. In addition, a tendering process is under way to put in place a contract which will allow for the provision of further Garda vehicles. This is a matter that will be pursued in the light of An Garda Síochána's operational priorities and the availability of financial resources.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that a full and comprehensive policing service is being delivered throughout the country. They have also confirmed that the relevant policing arrangements are being kept under on-going review to ensure that optimum use is made of Garda resources.