Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 May 1992

Vol. 419 No. 5

Written Answers. - Howth Garda Numbers.

Michael Joe Cosgrave

Question:

125 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the inadequate numbers of gardaí assigned to Howth Garda station, and the escalating numbers of house break-ins, he will outline the number of gardaí assigned to Howth; if, in view of the serious shortage in the Howth Garda station he will appoint more gardaí, thus ensuring the provision of foot patrols in housing estates in this 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 strength of Howth Garda Station is 31. I am also informed that the question of allocating additional manpower to Howth Garda Station is under consideration by the Garda authorities in the light of overall demands on Garda manpower.

The sub-district of Howth is policed by foot and mobile patrols. Following a number of break-ins in the past few weeks special patrols were mounted by local gardaí with the assistance of the Divisional Crime Task Force and have successfully dealt with this problem. The Garda authorities are constantly monitoring the situation to ensure adequate policing of the sub-district.