Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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504. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the additional training resources for existing members of An Garda Síochána put in place since the recommencement of Garda training at Templemore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19283/19]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for managing An Garda Síochána, including the training of its members and civilian staff and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.

I have been advised by the Commissioner that training for An Garda Síochána is co-ordinated through the Garda College in Templemore. The organisation is moving towards a blended learning approach, and is presently using e-learning and collaborating with the National Digital Learning Centre at DCU to develop further in this area.

An Garda Síochána has a structured training delivery infrastructure nationally with facilities throughout the country. The organisation is expanding its training infrastructure nationally and has engaged in procurement processes which allow the use of external training facilities.

In addition to the above, A Policing Service for the Future, the implementation report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland, determines that the following will occur during 2019:

1. The development of a Learning Development Strategy for 2020-2024.

2. The appointment of an Executive Director for Learning and Development.

3. The establishment of an expert Review Group for Learning and Development.