Written answers

Wednesday, 24 March 2021

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Strength

Photo of Pauline TullyPauline Tully (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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1283. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the estimated additional cost if the number of gardaí is increased to 15,500 before the end of June 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15728/21]

Photo of Helen McEnteeHelen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that the Garda Commissioner is responsible, by law, for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including recruitment and human resources matters.  As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.

An Garda Síochána has been allocated an unprecedented budget of €1.952 billion for 2021. The significant level of funding provided over recent years is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff.  As a 28 February 2021, there are over 14,500 Garda members and over 3,000 Garda staff nationwide.

In relation to Garda recruits, the Deputy will appreciate that these numbers have been affected by the COVID-19 public health restrictions and the subsequent impact in relation to education and accommodation facilities at the Garda College.  I am advised by the Garda authorities that it is currently anticipated that An Garda Síochána will be in a position to take in 450 new Trainees over the course of 2021, however these plans will be kept under review in light of the evolving situation with regard to necessary COVID-19 restrictions.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the number of Garda members changes in line with recruitment and retirements.  However, the table below, furnished to me by the Garda authorities, outlines the payroll costs relating to the hire of 1,432 Gardaí, which would be required to reach 15,500 sworn members by 30 June 2022.

I would note that payroll costs for new Garda recruits include a basic allowance of €184 per week.  After 32 weeks of training, Garda recruits are attested and move on to the first point of the Garda pay scale €31,600 (pay scale that is expected to be in operation on completion of training in November 2021).  The figures include Employer's PRSI and an estimation of allowances which Garda members may qualify for depending on their assignments. The annual cost increases as the members move up the Garda Pay scale each year.

- Cost 1 April 2021 to 30 June 2022
2021 intake (1432 trainees) €51,025,252
Total Sworn Members 15,500

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