Paul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
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30. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality for an update on the new drones being trialled by An Garda Síochána. [38031/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, 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. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.

The Garda Air Support Unit is a national resource based at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel, Co. Dublin and is under the direction and control of Assistant Commissioner, Organised and Serious Crime and the operational control of Superintendent, Operational Support Services. The unit provides a 24-hour proactive and reactive service in support of operational Gardaí on the ground and specialist units.

I am advised that this unit is currently finalising the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Drone Evaluation Project and upon completion of same, recommendations will be forwarded to Garda Management for consideration as to how best to use this technology within An Garda Síochána.

Legislation currently limits the operational use of drones by An Garda Síochána, however, the Deputy will be aware that the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023 will provide a legal basis for the use of recording devices on drones by Gardaí on commencement of the Act, subject to a code of practice.