2378. Deputy Joanna Byrne asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to provide data for the Louth/Cavan/Monaghan division for the number of Gardaí who have requested, received and completed any form of pursuit training. [61833/26]

2538. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the percentage of Gardaí in each Kildare Garda station who have successfully completed the pursuit driving courses in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63310/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2378 and 2538 together.

The Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána under Section 33 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. The Act states that the Commissioner is responsible for the training and professional development of Garda personnel and the Commissioner is independent in his functions under Section 34 of the Act.

I have been advised by the Garda authorities that while the current suite of competency based driving courses provided does not include specific training on tactical pursuits an updated ‘Spontaneous Pursuits Policy’ was issued in late 2024. This policy provides direction to Garda personnel who engage in the use of pursuit tactics to reduce the risk associated with pursuits.

The Commissioner has recently confirmed that he will introduce Garda pursuit training before the end of this year. This is the first time Gardaí will receive this specialist training. Currently, response training is provided to specific members of An Garda Síochána, with specialist units receiving advanced driving training.

I welcome the the introduction of this training a and remain committed to ensuring that our Gardaí have the resources, equipment, and legislation they need to fulfil their vital policing role.