Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 May 1991

Vol. 408 No. 7

Written Answers. - County Kildare Garda Levels.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice whether he proposes to increase the Garda strength in Maynooth, Leixlip or Celbridge, County Kildare in view of the increasing needs of the area; if he has received confirmation from the Garda authorities of the need for increased policing-patrols including 24 hour duty; if he will favourably respond to any such request; if he will outline the precise Garda requirement for the areas mentioned given the population-crime levels; if he will favourably respond to the needs in the current year or thereafter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke)

The allocation of Garda manpower and resources to particular areas is a matter for the Garda authorities, who must have regard to local needs and circumstances, available resources and all the other demands on Garda services that must be met. It would not be appropriate for me to involve myself in such operational matters and, accordingly, the question of my approval for policing adjustments of the kind referred to in the question does not arise.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they are satisfied that the available resources are being deployed to best advantage in meeting the current policing needs of the Maynooth, Leixlip and Celbridge areas. Day, evening and night patrols are already being carried out by the gardaí based at these centres and there are arrangements for 24-hour cover from Lucan station and the divisional headquarters at Naas. The policing arrangements for these areas will, of course, continue to be kept under review.