Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 30 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 9

Written Answers. - Direct Garda Numbers.

Patrick McCartan

Question:

83 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline, (a) the number of gardaí permanently assigned to the J district at present, (b) the ratio of this number to the population of the district and (c) the way in which this compares with the Garda/population ratio for the country as a whole; whether he considers the number of gardaí permanently assigned to J district to be adequate for the proper policing of the district having regard to the current level of crime in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Flynn)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current manpower in the J District is 147. They also inform me that the pattern of Garda District boundaries is such that it is not possible to give an accurate ratio for the level of Garda manpower to the population of the district. I am informed, however, that the equivalent ratio for the D.M.A. is 1:261, as compared to 1:320 for the country as a whole. The population of an area is, of course, only one of many factors which are taken into account by the Garda authorities in deciding on the allocation of Garda manpower.

The Garda authorities inform me that the current Garda strength in the J District has been decided having regard to the policing needs of the district in the context of the overall demands on Garda manpower which must be met. The authorities assure me that the manning levels are constantly monitored to ensure that the service provided is commensurate with the policing needs of the district.