asked the Minister for Justice if he is concerned with the increase in crime and vandalism in Galway city in recent weeks; if he is satisfied that there is sufficient Garda presence throughout the city; if he will give details of the number of gardaí from the Galway Division transferred to Border duty in recent weeks; and if he accepts that this decrease in Garda presence is a factor in the increased level of crime.
Written Answers. - Crime and Vandalism in Galway City.
375.
Limerick East): I am informed by the Garda authorities that there has been no increase in reported crime and vandalism in Galway city in recent weeks and that the local Garda officers consider that the present policing arrangements for the city are adequate.
The Garda authorities state that a total of 20 members were transferred recently, on a temporary basis, to stations in Border areas from the Galway West Garda Division — which includes, but is not confined to Galway city — but, since there has been no increase in crime, the question of the increase being caused by the transfer of members does not arise.