Michael P. Kitt
Question:8 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the results of the review, so far, on the rural policing scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Policing Scheme.
This review showed that the scheme has been exceptionally successful in enhancing the level and effectiveness of policing activity in the areas involved. The garda in the 14 districts where the scheme has been operating have become increasingly mobile as a result of the combining of resources and the increased co-ordination in the service provided to local residents by the station parties in each of these districts. For example, as a result of the scheme, all stations in the areas involved now have guaranteed fixed opening times each day, which was not the case previously. There has also been greater involvement with community groups such as youth clubs and an increase in visits to schools and to the elderly living alone by the garda concerned. Indeed, the Garda authorities have informed me that the response from the public in the districts in question has been overwhelmingly favourable, that people in other districts are pressing to have the scheme extended to their communities.
Does the Minister wish that the scheme be extended nationwide, particularly, bearing in mind the big increase in the number of break-ins taking place?
The public response has been generally favourable. Certainly, I would like to see it extended. We are reviewing how we might do so on a phased basis. Of course, it is expensive and the use of resources might not allow the extension to happen all in one go, but we do have plans to extend the scheme further.