Garda Commissioner grilled on €40M in Garda custody

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin North West, Paul McAuliffe, has issued a call for greater transparency, stronger security, and smarter financial oversight after revealing that An Garda Síochána is currently holding a staggering €40 million in cash as evidence pending criminal convictions.

Speaking at yesterday’s session of the Public Accounts Committee, Deputy McAuliffe directly questioned Garda Commissioner Drew Harris on the protocols in place to safeguard this massive sum of money.

“€40 million in cash is a significant amount of money, the public deserves assurances that this money is being held securely, transparently, and strategically,” McAuliffe has said.

Deputy McAuliffe called for robust security protocols to ensure no risk or vulnerability in how the funds are physically stored or managed.

He highlighted the importance of regular and transparent reporting to the Public Accounts Committee outlining how much cash is held.

“There must be a formal financial management strategy established to ensure the money does not lose value while it sits idle, potentially for years, awaiting the outcome of legal processes,” he said.

“This money must be protected not just physically, but financially. €40 million today will not be worth €40 million in five years if it’s gathering dust instead of interest.

“Today, I welcomed the commitment of the Commissioner to further engage in the PAC and to support the work of An Garda Síochána wholeheartedly, but transparency is not optional — it’s essential.

“We need a system that reflects both financial prudence and public trust.”

The issue will remain under scrutiny at the PAC, with McAuliffe vowing to pursue clear answers and action.