Vol. 448 No. 7
20 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice if she will have arrangements made to conduct an investigation into staffing levels and resources in Blanchardstown Garda Station, Dublin 15, in view of the fact that people are experiencing delays when they report matters to the gardaí at that station; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2828/95]
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the allocation of Garda manpower to individual areas, that an extra three gardaí and one probationer garda were assigned to Blanchardstown station in January 1995. This brings the current strength at the station to 69 gardaí.
I am also informed by the Garda authorities that an additional four gardaí were assigned from within that strength to the community policing unit at Blanchardstown station last month, bringing the current strength of the unit to one sergeant and 11 gardaí. These community gardaí perform regular foot patrols throughout the Blanchardstown district and liaise on a regular basis with local community and residents groups, as well as being involved with youth activities in the District. There are two neighbourhood watch clinics in the Blanchardstown district which are attended by the community gardaí. The local juvenile liaison officer is actively involved in setting up a neighbourhood youth project in the Blakestown area. This will enable the community to respond to youth needs and is aimed at diverting young people at risk away from crime.
There are also six mobile units attached to Blanchardstown Garda station and these are used to ensure regular mobile patrols are performed throughout the Blanchardstown district.
The Garda authorities are confident that the increased Garda presence in Blanchardstown will improve the policing arrangements for the area. The size and growth of this area requires ongoing review of policing arrangements. I will make whatever decisions are required to recognise the developing nature of this new town. However, if the Deputy has a specific case in mind where a delay in the Garda response occurred and if he can supply me with details, I will have the matter examined by the Garda authorities.
