The Sligo Leitrim Garda Division is to receive 14 new squad cars this year.

The Sligo Leitrim Garda Division is to receive 14 new squad cars this year.

Seven cars have been issued to Sligo Leitrim already this year, with seven more due to be issued in the coming weeks.

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.

Senator Michael Comiskey said, “Fine Gael has provided An Garda Síochána with at least €414 million more investment than Fianna Fáil had proposed for the same period. By contrast, Fine Gael in Government is determined to combat crime in local communities.”

“Our local Gardaí will be really bolstered by this influx of new vehicles, which is part of the Government’s comprehensive plan to fight crime.

“As well as increasing the number of Garda vehicles, we are bringing more Gardaí out from behind the desks and out onto our streets,” stated the Leitrim Senator.

Templemore Garda Training College has also reopened with 300 new students entering the college last September and another 250 recruits starting their training this year.

Comiskey said, “As well as strengthening our Garda force and increasing the numbers of vehicles, the Minister for Justice, Frances 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.

“In a move to support the victims of crime the Minister is also planning to bring in legislation to allow for implementation of the EU Victims Directive, and new Garda Victim Support Offices will be established in every Garda division.

“With these practical measures and far reaching reforms we are going to show criminals how seriously we are taking the fight against crime.”

The new cars, include Opel Insignia Sports Tourers which provide support during high speed manoeuvres.