The Garda Commissioner is, in accordance with the provisions of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote and as such, is responsible for the procurement of Garda vehicles.
In that context, I am advised by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána procures vehicles in accordance with public procurement procedures and EU Directives under contracts tendered by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP). The published vehicle tender documentation is available on the OGP website and incorporates the vehicle technical specification as required by An Garda Síochána.
The use of the vehicles is determined by the Garda Commissioner in accordance with prioritised operational requirements. The vehicles are maintained and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure their roadworthiness and safety until they are decommissioned from the fleet when they have reached the decommissioning kilometre threshold.