Vol. 452 No. 7
27 Mr. N. Treacy asked the Minister for Justice the reason there has been a reduction in the opening hours of a Garda station (details supplied) in County Galway; if she will ensure that this Garda station is upgraded in any future structural changes in Garda administration in the area; if she will further ensure that the present complement of gardaí employed in this station, is maintained in the years ahead; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8422/95]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the present strength at the station referred to in the question is one sergeant and two gardaí. I am further informed that one garda retired from the station in April 1995. The opening hours at the Garda station were adjusted accordingly to ensure optimum use of the available manpower in patrolling the sub-district. The Garda authorities are satisfied that this arrangement provides for a more visible Garda presence in the area. The revised opening hours at the station concerned are as follows: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 12 mid-day to 1 p.m.
The Garda authorities are satisfied that the present policing arrangements are adequate to meet the needs of the area and they have no plans at present to alter these arrangements. However, the position will be kept under review by the Garda authorities.
