24th June 2015
- Cork City Garda division is to receive 24 new vehicles this year, the most of any division across the country
It is reassuring to see that Cork is being prioritised in the allocation of new Garda vehicles. The Cork City Division which extends as far south as Carrigaline and Crosshaven is to receive 24 new vehicles this year, the most of any division across the country.
In total 49 new Garda cars will be allocated across Cork in 2015, that is almost one new vehicle each and every week. This will really help the fight against crime in our communities.
So far this year 34 cars have been issued to Cork and another 15 will be issued in the coming weeks. This is part of the Government’s comprehensive plan to fight crime and to improve the resources available to the Gardai. In addition to this 2015 allocation, €27.5 million was invested in new Garda vehicles between 2012 and 2014, which was an increase on the €4.8 million allocated by the previous Government in Budgets 2009-2011.
Fighting crime is not just about Garda vehicles, it is also about increasing the number of Gardai. Following the closure of the Garda training college in Templemore this Government allocated funding so that it could be reopened for new recruits. Last September 300 new students entered the college with another 250 recruits starting their training this year, bringing the total to 550.
As well as strengthening our Garda force and increasing the numbers of vehicles, the Minister for Justice, France Fitzgerald, is bringing in legislation to strengthen our response to burglaries. Too many people have had their homes violated and the proposed measures include longer sentences for repeat offenders.
The increase in Garda resources, the allocation of new vehicles and new Gardai in training show a clear commitment to tackle crime. All of these developments will enable the Gardai to continue to provide an excellent service to our local communities.