Vol. 461 No. 6
137 Mr. Hughes asked the Minister for Justice her views on the manpower level of gardaí on Achill Island, County Mayo in view of the recent retirement of the local sergeant and the promotion of one of the gardaí; if manpower levels can be restored as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3480/96]
The Garda authorities are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda personnel and resources to individual areas. I am informed by them that the sergeant at Achill retired on 24 December 1995 leaving the station with a strength of three gardaí. I understand that arrangements are being made to assign a sergeant from the current promotion list to Achill.
I also understand that one of the three gardaí at Achill is on the current promotion list and is not expected to be promoted until the latter part of this year. When this promotion occurs the question of replacing him will be examined by the Garda authorities.
138 Mr. Flood asked the Minister for Justice the progress, if any, that has been made in the reconstruction and extension of the Garda station in Clondalkin, Dublin 22 or the provision of a new purpose built Garda station in order to meet the needs of the gardaí; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3497/96]
Discussions are ongoing on how best to meet the accommodation needs of the gardaí either on the existing site or on a new site. It is not possible, at this stage, to say when building might commence but the Deputy can be assured that every effort is being made to progress this project as quickly as possible.
