Garda numbers on the increase across the country – Farrell

Garda numbers are on the increase across the country, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Alan Farrell, the Fine Gael spokesperson on Justice, said the latest figures show sustained and ongoing recruitment with an overall national increase in total gardaí of almost 10% as compared to 2015.

Deputy Farrell said: “At the end of March 2023, there were 14,036 garda members across the country. This represents an increase of almost 10% since 2015 when there were 12,816 garda members nationally.

“In my own divisional area of Dublin Metropolitan Region North, the number of gardaí has increased by over 14%, with 762 gardaí now on the beat.

“The increased garda presence across the country shows the true commitment that Fine Gael in Government have toward building stronger, safer communities.”

Deputy Farrell continued: “At a national level, gardaí on the beat are now supported by 3,130 garda staff, which is over 50% more than the number of staff in 2015.

“Also since 2015, almost 900 garda members have been freed up from back office duties to front line policing because of civilianisation.

“It is widely recognised that policing is difficult and challenging work. Fine Gael are supporting An Garda Síochána through a range of significant investments, providing them with the tools, technology and training to police a modern Ireland.

“This government is committed to securing the resources necessary to grow garda numbers to 15,000 and beyond, underscored by the unprecedented €2.14 billion allocated in Budget 2023, to allow for up to 1,000 new gardaí to be recruited this year, as well as 400 Garda staff.

“We are all immensely grateful to our gardaí for their outstanding dedication and commitment to serving the public and for the important role that they play in our society, helping us to build safer and stronger communities,” Deputy Farrell concluded.

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