Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The unprecedented allocation of over €2.3 billion to An Garda Síochána for 2024 demonstrates the Government's commitment to ensuring Gardaí have provision for the equipment, technology, facilities, fleet and personnel it needs to carry out vital policing work. This includes funding for up to 900 new Gardaí and a 66 per cent increase in the Garda training allowance to €305.

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 distribution of Garda members between the various Garda stations. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.

I am assured by the Garda Commissioner that this distribution is kept under review in light of emerging crime trends and policing needs.

As the Deputy is aware, Santry and Ballymun Garda stations are located within the DMR North Division. I am advised that the number of Gardaí assigned to the Division has increased by over 13% since the end of 2015.

Finglas Garda station is located within the DMR West Division. I am advised that the number of Garda members assigned to the DMR West Division has increased by over 3% since the end of 2015.

The table below, which was provided to me by the Garda authorities, sets out the number of Garda members by rank assigned to Ballymun, Santry and Finglas Garda stations at the 30 September 2023, the latest date for when figures are available. Please note that this information is operational and may be subject to change.

Further detailed information in relation to the allocation of Gardaí by Division and Station can be found at the followinglink: www.gov.ie/en/publication/bd777-an-garda-siochana-your-police-service-some-facts-and-figures/.