Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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532.To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 201 of 1 May 2024, when the information will be provided. [24818/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I understand that Parliamentary Question No. 201 of 1 May 2024 refers to the current number of Roads Policing vehicles; and the number equipped with technology in ANPR and interconnection with Garda mobility devices.

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

The unprecedented allocation of over €2.35 billion for 2024 to An Garda Síochána demonstrates the Government's commitment to ensuring An Garda Síochána has provision for the equipment, technology, facilities, fleet and personnel it needs to carry out vital policing work. I am advised that the purchase and allocation of vehicles is made on the basis of identified operational demands and the availability of resources. This is reviewed on a continual basis.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that, as of 30 April 2024, there are 335 vehicles assigned to the Roads Policing Unit, including motorbikes. Of this figure, there are currently 131 roads policing vehicles equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology and additional interconnection with Garda mobility devices.

I understand that ANPR-equipped motorcycles were trialled by An Garda Síochána and that this has now been completed. I have been informed that there are no plans going forward to install ANPR systems to any more motorcycles.

In March of this year, there were 631 Gardai assigned to roads policing. I am informed that all Roads Policing Gardaí have access to the ANPR app through their mobility device. It is anticipated that all future purchases of roads policing vehicles will be fitted out with ANPR technology prior to unit allocation.