Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will review the policy of decommissioning Garda vehicles that have reached the 300,000 kilometre mark; if he will consider testing such cars individually in an effort to avoid wasting vehicles that are roadworthy and fit for purpose; if he will state what is physically done with Garda vehicles that reach the 300,000 kilometre mark; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17512/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Decisions in relation to the provision and deployment of Garda transport are matters for the Garda Commissioner. I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is a priority that all Garda operational vehicles fully meet the safety requirements of both Garda personnel and members of the public. This is a function which is undertaken in accordance with strict standards set by the vehicle manufacturers. I understand from the Garda authorities that the relevant manufacturers have indicated that, for safety reasons, certain patrol vehicles should be withdrawn from service when the odometer reading reaches 300,000 kilometres. Accordingly, this is the operational policy that is applied by the Garda authorities. Garda vehicles which have been withdrawn from service having reached 300,000 kilometres are disposed of through an authorised recycling centre.