asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the recent spate of robberies in South Wexford, he will (1) increase substantially the overall Garda strength in the county, and (2) provide an extra sergeant in Wexford town.
Written Answers . - County Wexford Garda Strength .
916.
, Limerick East): The detailed deployment of Garda manpower is a matter for 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.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that nine extra gardaí have been assigned to stations in County Wexford in the past six months and the question of further increasing Garda strength in the county will be considered according as the additional manpower now in training and being recruited becomes available for assignment. The Garda authorities also inform me that, having regard to overall resources and other demands on Garda services, they are not at present in a position to fill the vacancy for a sergeant at Wexford station but that the vacancy will be filled as soon as circumstances permit.