asked the Minister for Justice if he will state the number of Gardaí barracks closed down during the year ending 30th November, 1953, and the number which it is proposed to close down during the coming year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Garda Barracks.
Mr. Boland
Eight Garda stations were closed permanently and two were closed temporarily during the year ended 30th November, 1953. Information is not at present available as to the number of stations which may be closed during the coming year.
Will the Minister have regard to the manifest fact that whatever administrators may think, people down the country do not want Garda stations closed? Will the Minister consider that aspect of the situation before acceding to requisitions for the closing of Garda stations on the grounds of economy? There is an important social consideration to be borne in mind.
Mr. Boland
I am well aware of that. I take every fact into consideration before agreeing to the closing of a station and listen to any representations that may be made about it.
It is a tribute to the Garda that such representations are made.