asked the Minister for Justice if he will state the number of Garda stations (a) closed, and (b) reduced in strength in each of the three years ended 30th September, 1959, and the total reduction brought about in Garda personnel, commissioned and non-commissioned ranks, as a result.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Stations and Personnel.
46.
In the year ended 30th September, 1957, 4 Garda Stations were closed and 9 Stations reduced in strength.
In the year ended 30th September, 1958, 3 Garda Stations were closed and 11 reduced in strength.
In the year ended 30th September, 1959, 2 Garda Stations were closed and 15 reduced in strength.
The total resultant reduction in Garda personnel was 115, consisting of 2 officers and 113 non-commissioned ranks.
Will the Minister agree that, in view of the outbreak of lawlessness in the city and country, his efforts might be directed now towards increasing the strength of the Garda and re-opening some of these barracks?
That, also, is under consideration.