The Garda authorities are responsible for the detailed deployment of Garda personnel and resources to different areas. They have informed me that the present strength at the stations concerned is as follows: Whitehall, 45; Santry, 83; Coolock, 95; Raheny, 71; Clontarf, 57; Fitzgibbon Street, 117; Store Street, 192.
Whitehall, Santry, Coolock, Raheny and Clontarf form part of the Dublin north division while Fitzgibbon Street and Store Street form part of the Dublin north central division. I understand from the Garda authorities that the Divisional Officers of both of these divisions are satisfied that the policing requirements of their respective divisions are being met with the present deployment of personnel and resources. They are also satisfied that the areas concerned are receiving adequate foot patrol by members of the Garda Síochána. They report that every effort is being made to ensure that foot patrols are maintained and that they are directed and prioritised in response to crime trends. They have assured me that these arrangements are kept under continual review and any changes considered necessary are made.
I have been assured that the neighbourhood watch schemes in the areas concerned are fully supported by the gardaí. Members who are assigned to neighbourhood policing units patrol their respective areas on foot and keep in constant contact with area co-ordinators and they also attend neighbourhood watch meetings. In addition, they regularly liaise with local residents and the business community. The Garda authorities inform me that every effort is availed of by the Garda Síochána to actively encourage the setting up of neighbourhood watch schemes and every opportunity is pursued to build on existing schemes.