Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Mar 1995

Vol. 451 No. 2

Written Answers. - County Kildare Crime.

Seán Power

Question:

98 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the concern which exists in the Confey-Leixlip area of County Kildare in view of the recent spate of armed robberies and the rise in crime in the area; and if she will provide a full-time 24 hour Garda station for Leixlip. [6329/95]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I am aware of the concern which exists in the Leixlip-Confey area of County Kildare due to the increase in the level of crime there. I have recently agreed to meet the Leixlip Town Commissioners to discuss the policing arrangements for the Leixlip-Confey area. However, the contention by the Deputy that there has been a spate of armed robberies in the Leixlip-Confey area recently is at variance with the facts. While acknowledging fully that the occurrence of any armed robberies is a matter which understandably gives rise to concern, at the same time it is necessary to record the facts. The facts, according to the Garda authorities, are that there has been one armed robbery in this area in the past year.

I am informed also by the Garda authorities that they have taken steps to tackle the recent increase in crime in the area. The community gardaí for the area have provided crime prevention and security information to residents in response to the number of burglaries in the locality recently. A mobile crime prevention unit was established last year which has sole responsibility for policing the Leixlip-Confey area. In addition, the strength of the divisional task force has been increased recently and will be deployed in the Leixlip-Confey area to augment existing foot and mobile patrols there.

I would also refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 100 of 1 March 1995 which addresses the question of a full-time Garda station for Leixlip.

I am informed that the policing arrangements for the Leixlip-Confey area are kept under continuous review by the Garda authorities and that any redeployment deemed necessary by changing circumstances will be introduced.