Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner determines the distribution and stationing of Gardaí throughout the State under section 33 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended). As Minister, I play no role in the assignment of Garda members to the various units/Divisions.

I am assured that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in light of identified operational demands. It is also important to note that the allocation of Probationer Gardaí is initially to Training Garda Stations and also allows for consequential inter-divisional transfers of other Garda members.

In the interest of transparency, the breakdown of Probationer Gardaí assigned by Division and Station from 2015 (when the Garda College reopened) to 15 December 2023 (the date of the most recent attestation of Probationer Gardaí) is publicly available on my Department's website at the following link:

www.gov.ie/en/publication/7c2e6-probationer-gardai/

This information is updated after each attestation. Information supplied is provided by An Garda Síochána and is operational and subject to change.

The Deputy will also be aware the this year's recruitment campaign opened on Monday 15 January and closes on Thursday 8 February. I encourage anyone with an interest in a career as a Garda member to apply.