Brian Brennan (Wicklow-Wexford, Fine Gael)
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548. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality for an update on Garda numbers in a region (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13481/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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It is my first priority as Minister for Justice to get more Gardaí on our streets through increased recruitment and civilianisation where appropriate.

The Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to fight crime, and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda organisation is central to this policy. The Garda Vote in Budget 2025 saw unprecedented funding of over €2.48 billion, a 27% increase since 2020 which is supporting the continued recruitment of Garda members and staff.

While the Garda Commissioner is operationally responsible for the allocation of Garda resources, I look forward to engaging regularly with him to ensure our Gardaí have the resources they need. I am informed that when allocating and transferring Garda members to and from any Division, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan.

I understand that the requirements of all Garda Divisions nationwide are also taken into account, which include:

• Local and national crime trends and workloads;
• Policing arrangements and operational strategies;
• Minimum establishment statistics;
• Local population and trends, geographical area and size;
• Transfer applications, including welfare, personnel issues and concerns.