Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of boats currently in the Garda Water Unit; if there are plans for recruitment in the unit; the cost of operation of the unit excluding staffing costs in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5511/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The provision and allocation of Garda resources, including boats, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the light of his identified policing priorities.

In that context, I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are currently twelve boats attached to the Unit. The requirements of Garda specialist units, including the Garda Water Unit, are subject to ongoing review and analysis to ensure that An Garda Síochána's operational demands are met in the most efficient and effective manner.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that expenditure on the Garda Water Unit, excluding staffing costs, for the years requested by the Deputy is outlined in the table below: