Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to increase the number of horses in the Garda Mounted Unit; the number of horses that retired in 2012; the number that are due to retire in 2013; the date the unit last received a new horse; the cost of the unit for the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8354/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The provision and deployment of Garda resources, including specialist units, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are currently 14 horses attached to the Garda Mounted Unit. Two horses were retired in 2012 and one is due to retire in 2013. The Unit last acquired a new horse in October 2012.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the cost of the Garda Mounted Unit for the years requested by the Deputy is provided in the following table:

I am also advised by the Garda authorities that the operational requirements arising in relation to the Garda Mounted Unit will continue to be kept under on-going review.