Vol. 442 No. 8
30 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Justice if Garda staffing levels are adequate to address rising crime in Cork; if more gardaí are now on the beat in the city; the number of gardaí released for protection duties as a result of civilian recruitment in Garda stations; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are four Garda districts serving the Cork city area, Anglesea Street, Togher, Mayfield and Gurranabraher. The total current Garda strength at these stations is 572. In addition, there are currently 39 civilian clerical staff, performing administrative work for the gardaí and their recruitment has led to the release for operational duties of an equivalent number of gardaí.
At present, one sergeant and 14 gardaí are involved on community policing duties in Cork city. In addition to the foot patrols carried out by these gardaí, both foot and mobile patrols are carried out throughout the city on a regular basis by both uniform and plainclothes gardaí. While the final crime figures for 1993 have not been compiled, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the indications are that the number of crimes reported in Cork city over the past two years has remained static and there is no indication of any increase in crime levels in Cork city to date in 1994.
The Garda authorities are satisfied that the current policing arrangements for Cork city are adequate to meet the needs of the city. They are keeping the situation under continuing review and any changes considered necessary will be made.
