Justice | Strength of An Garda Síochána in line with demographics

To ask the Minister for Justice the extent to which the strength of An Garda Síochána is likely to be brought up to strength in line with demographics; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

As the Deputy will be aware the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. This includes the allocation of resources, including Garda members, to a given Division, District or Station. I am assured that the Commissioner keeps the allocation of these resources under continual review, in line with crime trends and population stats, to ensure their optimum use.

I would like to assure the Deputy that we remain committed to the target of 1,000 new recruits in 2023. My Department and I regularly engage with the Garda Commissioner to ensure he has the necessary resources to deliver on this level of recruitment.
I am committed that Garda numbers would be brought o 15,000 and beyond.
 

I take great confidence in the level of interest shown in the latest Garda recruitment campaign despite a very competitive job market. This is a testament to the enduring popularity of a career with An Garda Síochána. I also take confidence knowing that a further recruitment campaign, which will be launched in the coming months, will ensure a pipeline of suitable candidates.