Written answers

Wednesday, 24 November 2021

Department of Justice and Equality

An Garda Síochána

Photo of Cathal CroweCathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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142. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality when she expects the Garda training college in Templemore to intake its next group of recruits. [57699/21]

Photo of Helen McEnteeHelen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda members and staff. As Minister, I play no role in these independent functions.

As the Deputy will be aware, public health restrictions have unavoidably impacted on intakes to the Garda College, Templemore, particularly in 2020. I am advised, however, that the College has resumed intakes this year and that four intakes of a total of 385 recruits have commenced training, the most recent of which was on 15 November 2021.

An Garda Síochána have advised that a recruitment plan for 2022 is currently being developed to manage the recruitment processes for Garda members and Garda staff roles. Implementation will of course be dependent on public health guidelines but I very much hope it will be possible to maximise the intake to Templemore next year.

The matter of dates for future intakes is, of course, under the remit of the Commissioner. I am advised that An Garda Síochána intends to hold a recruitment campaign early in 2022. Budget 2022 provides for the recruitment of up to 800 additional Gardaí next year as part of the unprecedented allocation of in excess of €2 billion to An Garda Síochána.

Photo of Ruairi Ó MurchúRuairi Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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143. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will consult with the Garda Commissioner on any plans for ex-Garda reserves to receive a commemorative medal in 2022 for the centenary anniversary of the foundation of An Garda Síochána as many ex-reserves have given years of voluntary service to the State and regular ex-gardaí are receiving one; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57715/21]

Photo of Helen McEnteeHelen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from An Garda Síochána, but I have not received this information in time. I will write to the Deputy as soon as the information is to hand.

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