COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

south dublin county council crest

MEETING OF JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE

Friday, April 11, 2008

QUESTION NO.

QUESTION: Councillor J. Lahart

  1. What catering facilities exist in our Garda stations particularly over night catering facilties?  Are these considered adequate?
  2. What type sof ongoing in-service training is undertaken by Gardai and in what areas?
  3. Do gardai have to undergo ongoing in service fitness and health training?
  4. What is the average lifespan of a a Garda Patrol car and Motorcycle, and what is the average mileage accumulated on Garda vehicles?

REPLY:

  1. In the DMR South Division each Garda station is furnished with suitable facilities for catering, comprising of kitchen and seating areas suitably equipped.  These are adequate.
  2. Gardai receive at least two days in Service training under a Continuous Professional Development Programme annually.  The key functions of Continuous Professional Development are to provide           operational Gardai with the legislation and Garda Policy.  Training is delivered in a classroom environment led by an instructor.  The trainers rely on a lecture approach through PowerPoint and DVD presentations supplemented by class handouts.  Discussion groups and practical’s are also utilised.A Core training programme is developed annually at the Garda College.Gardai also receive refresher training in Firearms, Public Order and baton training on an ongoing basis.
  3. Student Gardai in training at the Garda College undergo weekly fitness training.  They also undergo self defence training and training in the use of ASP baton and the use of handcuffs.  When student Gardai are initially allocated to stations they have to conduct a Sports Project in which they organise a specific event which will benefit the community in some way.  In the DMR south Garda Division our students have established a tradition of completing a segment of the Wicklow Way walk and raise funds for local charities and hospitals. (The sum of 8 – 10,000 euros is raised each year.)  Once Gardai graduate and are allocated to full time stations they undergo periodic training in the ASP baton.  Gardai involved in Public Order duties undergo ongoing training which includes a fitness module.
  4. Garda patrol cars and motorcycles are generally on issue to the DMR South Division for two to five years depending on the unit to which they are attached to, level of use and general condition.  Generally patrol cars are replaced when they reach 100,000 miles.  Motorcycles are generally replaced around 40 – 50,000 miles. – Chief Superintendent John Manley

 In the DMR (West) Division, each station is equipped with cooking facilities which members may use at their discretion.  There is also an adjoining dining and recreation area.  These facilities are adequate. - Chief Superintendent John Twomey