asked the Minister for Justice if he has any plans for extending the mobility of the police force in rural areas; and, if so, when such plans will become effective.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Police Forces in Rural Areas.
15.
The present vehicular strength of the Garda Síochána in Country Divisions is 135 cars and 22 motor cycles as compared with 83 cars and 14 motor cycles 3 years ago. The question of keeping the mobility of the police force at a level consistent with requirements is constantly under review and when plans for the current year have been completed an additional 35 motor cycles will have been allocated for use in rural areas.
I take it that it is the general policy of the Government eventually to have a completely mobile police force here?
To the extent that it is deemed to be necessary, yes.
But not, I hope, in substitution for Garda forces at present situated in various parts of the country?
Never.