asked the Minister for Justice the strength of the Garda Síochána at Dunshaughlin station, County Meath, 20 years ago, ten years ago and at the present time; and if the crime rate and other indices of Garda workload for the area have risen or fallen over the period.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Meath Garda Station.
44.
The strength of Dunshaughlin Garda station in the years mentioned is as follows:
|
Sergeant |
Gardaí |
|
|
1952 |
1 |
4 |
|
1962 |
1 |
3 |
|
1972 |
1 |
2 |
The incidence of crime in the subdistrict has fluctuated over the 20 year period but has increased in the past two years. At present some 20 crimes are being committed there annually.
The Commissioner has informed me that, having regard to the present overall strength of the force, the current strength of Dunshaughlin station is adequate for the police needs of the area. The position is, however, kept under constant review, and the need for an increase in strength will be examined when extra gardaí, now being recruited, are available for assignment to the division.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.