asked the Minister for Justice if he will state, in view of the statistics available in relation to the crime rate in the Louth-Meath division of the Garda Síochána, the proposals he has to increase the strength of the force in this division generally; and his proposals specifically in relation to Dundalk, County Louth.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Dundalk (Louth) Garda Strength.
314.
The detailed deployment of Garda manpower is a matter to be decided primarily by the Garda authorities and the strength assigned to the various stations is reviewed from time to time to take account of changing needs and circumstances. The precise arrangements made for policing individual areas are made by or in consultation with the local Garda officers.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that, having regard to overall resources and other demands on Garda services, they are not in a position at present to increase the strength assigned to Dundalk station or the overall strength in the Louth-Meath division. However, the police needs of that division will be taken into account when the recruits who are now in training become available for assignment during the coming months.