asked the Minister for Justice, in respect of the community policing scheme at Whitestown/ Sheepmoor, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, if he has satisfied himself that the experiment has been worthwhile; if any weaknesses have been identified in the scheme; if any improvements or developments of the scheme are contemplated; if he will meet a deputation from the local neighbourhood watch committee to hear their suggestions for improvements in the scheme and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Community Policing.
51.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that they are satisfied with the operation of the community policing scheme in the Whitestown/Sheepmoor area and that there are no plans at present to introduce any changes. The operation of the scheme is being kept under continuous review by the local Garda officers, who are always ready to meet with the neighbourhood watch committee to hear any suggestions they might have for improvements to the scheme. As the concerns of the committee no doubt relate to local policing issues, which are essentially matters for the Garda authorities, I am confident that a meeting with the local Garda officers will satisfactorily deal with any matters that the committee wishes to discuss.