Vol. 417 No. 5
150 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the concern being expressed by St. Joseph's Community Association, Cork regarding the inadequate Garda strength in the catchment area, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the chairperson of St. Joseph's Community Association recently met with gardaí from Mayfield station to discuss local crime and the setting up of a neighbourhood watch scheme. The gardaí assured the chairperson of their support for a scheme and I understand that it is hoped to have one in operation in the near future.
As regards Garda strength at Mayfield station, the Garda authorities are satisfied that the current strength of 40 members at the station is adequate to meet present policing needs. The indications are that the 1991 crime figures for the Mayfield Garda district will show a very significant reduction as compared with 1990 and the Garda authorities say that every effort is being made to maintain this improvement.
