asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that his statement when replying to the debate on his Estimate has caused concern in so far as it referred to the proposed closure of a number of Garda stations; where these stations are located; and how many stations will be affected.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Closure of Garda Stations.
10.
I am at present engaged in a review of the organisation of the Garda Síochána and have reached a tentative conclusion to accept the advice of the Commissioner that about 30 of the 750 stations in the country ought to be closed.
A redistribution of manpower in the Garda Síochána is long overdue having regard to the changes that have taken place during the past 40 years in population, in the incidence of crime, in local traffic densities and so on. There has also been a great improvement in roads and in travel and communication facilities. Further, the expansion of the Garda transport fleet and the more efficient radio and telephone networks which operate within the Garda Síochána are also reasons for the redistribution of strengths.
In the case of each one of the stations which are recommended for closing, the Commissioner has certified that the centre in question can be policed from adjoining stations with a saving of manpower and without loss of efficiency. The Commissioner has been pressing for substantial increases, as a matter of urgency, in the number of Gardaí at some larger centres of population, to deal with crime and traffic problems.
Until I have taken final decisions in relation to the specific stations to be closed, I am not prepared to indicate where these stations are located.
Do I understand the Minister to say that no final decision has been taken?
No final decision.
Will the Minister receive local representation on the closing of the station?
Surely. I am doing so.
11.
asked the Minister for Justice if he intends to close some Garda stations in Sligo and Leitrim; and, if so, where.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to the previous question in which I stated that, as a result of a general review of the organisation of the Force, I have reached a tentative conclusion to accept the Commissioner's recommendation that about 30 of the 750 stations in the country be closed.
However, until I have taken final decisions on the specific stations to be closed, I am not prepared to indicate where the stations are located.
Is the Minister aware that he is closing two of these stations in Longford? If only 30 are to be closed in Ireland it seems unfair to close two in a small county like Longford.
The question related to Sligo and Leitrim.
It does not go by counties but by the location and proximity of adjoining stations.