20 Gardai are to begin work this week in the Department of Social Protection in an effort to combat Social Welfare fraud.

So far this year the unit has generated savings of 64.5 million euro of which €23 million are recoverable overpayments 

The Gardai will work with the Department for 12 months

8 of the Gardai will come from Dublin, 2 from Dundalk and 2 from Longford and Cork, Letterkenny, Monaghan, Galway, Limerick, Navan and Sligo will each supply 1 Garda to the unit.

Their primary function will be to investigate allegations and initiate investigations into social welfare fraud.

Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton said: "The Department's objective is to ensure that it pays the right amount of money to the right person at the right time, and the vast majority of welfare customers receive only the payment to which they are entitled. I have always championed the welfare system as a safety net for those who need it most. It's precisely because the State's limited resources should go to those most in need that I make no apologies for tackling fraud and abuse in the system.

Garda Commissioner, Nóirín O'Sullivan said: "This initiative will help combat social welfare fraud, and highlights the skills, knowledge and experience Gardaí bring to tackling such issues. It also demonstrates how An Garda Síochána works in close co-operation with other State agencies for the benefit of the country and its people."