Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the distribution of Garda personnel and resources between the different Garda Divisions. As Minister, I have no role in these operational matters.

I can advise the Deputy that the new Garda Operating Model reflects and addresses the challenges of modern day policing by enabling specialisation in the delivery of key services and freeing up more Gardaí to focus on front line policing.

It will particularly enhance the investigation of crime through the delivery of a greater range of specialised services in local areas such as the investigation of sexual crime, domestic violence, cyber-crime, and economic crime.

The development and introduction of the Operating Model was a recommendation by both the Garda Inspectorate and the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI) and is a key element of delivering its implementation plan, ‘A Policing Service for the Future’.

The Operating Model introduces major changes to the structures of An Garda Síochána ensuring more front-line Gardaí, increased Garda visibility, and a wider range of policing services for people in their local area.

I am informed that An Garda Síochána's rollout of the Model is progressing well, with 10 of 21 divisions now fully functioning under the Operating Model, which includes the Clare/Tipperary Division.

The model, coupled with some realignment of responsibilities, will help to deliver a consistent, community-focused policing service. I believe that most people would agree that community policing has been at the heart of An Garda Síochána since its founding over 100 years ago, and I can assure you that the Government is committed to maintaining that tradition, so that all communities feel safe and are safe.

Over the last four Budgets I have been focused on constantly ramping up funding to provide the equipment, uniform, vehicles and technology Gardaí require to support their vital role of keeping communities safe.

The Deputy may also be interested to know that as of 30 November 2023 the new Clare/Tipperary Division has 674 Garda members of all ranks assigned.