Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I have contacted An Garda Síochána for the information requested by the Deputy but regretfully this information was not available in time. I will write to the Deputy once the information is to hand.

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Management of the courts, operational matters and logistical functions are the responsibility of the judiciary and Courts Service, which are independent in exercising their functions under the Courts Service Act 1998 and given the separation of powers in the Constitution. The Courts Service has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas at: oireachtasenquiries@courts.ie.

Figures of this nature are recorded by the Courts Service. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Courts Service for direct reply.

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the purchase, allocation, and effective and efficient use of Garda vehicles. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.

I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review to ensure their optimum use in light of identified operational needs and emerging crime trends.

I can assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to ensuring An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose, policing service. Budget 2023 provides funding of €2.14 billion for An Garda Síochána, of which I am informed that €10m has been allocated for investment in the Garda fleet.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Water Unit is a national resource based at Santry Garda Station, Dublin Metropolitan Region and Garycastle, Athlone, Co. Westmeath and is under the direction and control of Assistant Commissioner, Organised and Serious Crime and the operational control of Chief Superintendent, Operational Support Services.

The unit provides a full dive and marine capability throughout the State and responds to requests for assistance from within An Garda Síochána and relevant agencies.

I am informed that the Unit currently has 2 patrol boats, 4 rigid inflatable boats (RIB’s) and 6 inflatable boats. The boats allocated to the unit have met the present requirements of the Garda Water Unit to date and the equipment fitted on the boats is regularly serviced and upgraded when necessary.

I am further informed that financial sanction and the Request for Tender (RFT) has been advertised for the replacement of four rigid inflatable boats and it is envisaged the purchase will be completed in 2023. I am advised that currently there are no plans to replace the patrol boats.