asked the Minister for Justice the recognised strength of the Garda Síochána and also the actual numbers in the force in the years 1950, 1960 and 1970.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Síochána Strength.
37.
On 1st January, 1950, the approved strength of the Garda Síochána was 7,318 and the actual strength 7,166.
On 1st January, 1960, approved and actual strengths were 6,900 and 6,514 respectively.
On 1st January, 1970 the figures were 6,560 and 6,514.
Is the Minister concerned about the decrease in the number of people in the Garda Síochána and to what extent does he think this contributes to the increased crime rate?
I do not think it does. For a number of years the approved strength of the Garda Síochána has been more or less static at 6,560. The Deputy will appreciate that we have progressed a lot from the horse and buggy days in the matter of communications, cars and so on. Having regard to the re-arrangement of the force now proceeding, the present strength, combined with the new equipment, should be quite sufficient to deal with our problems.
Nothing replaces the man on the beat.
There are differing views on this.
Would the Minister have another look at this problem to see if we could increase the number? There is a demand, especially in city areas, for more gardai to patrol the areas and the Minister is aware of this fact because many organisations are writing to him on this matter. I would seriously ask him to reconsider the matter.
The Deputy and the House are aware that the whole question of the re-organisation of the force is proceeding. Stations are being closed, manpower is being re-organised with new equipment and more mechanisation and it is my information from those who should know that when this re-organisation is completed the manpower will be sufficient to deal with the problems we have.
Having regard to the increased population as a result of housing development in fringe areas of the city, are arrangements made to increase the Garda immediately in such cases? In a number of stations the strength of the force appears to be the same as it was when the population of the area was much lower.
I can assure the Deputy regarding the new housing developments that there have been increases in the manpower in these areas. Some of the stations are in the course of re-organisation and some new accommodation has been provided. An overall examination of the manpower structure to which I have referred is going on in the force at the moment, with provision being made for equipment, communications, two-way radios and so on.