Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 23 May 1996

Vol. 465 No. 8

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

87 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice the current Garda numbers at Coolock, Raheny and Howth Garda stations; the plans, if any, she has to strengthen Garda resources and personnel numbers in the R and J districts and in the remainder of Dublin. [10697/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

The Garda authorities are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources and personnel to different areas. They have expressed concern, and I share that concern, about supplying the kind of detailed information relating to Garda personnel sought by the Deputy, on the grounds of security and in the interests of crime prevention generally.

However, I propose to give the Deputy the details he requires on a district basis. Within the divisional breakdown of the Dublin Metropolitan Area, Coolock Garda station is in the R District and Raheny and Howth Garda stations are in the J District.

The overall Garda strength, by rank, as at 22 May 1996 in the R and J Districts are as follows:

Garda Strength of R District DMA (22/5/96)

Superintendent	Inspector	Sergeant	Garda	Total
1	5	27	150	183

Garda Strength of J District DMA (22/5/96)

Superintendent	Inspector	Sergeant	Garda	Total
1	5	28	121	155

I am also informed by the Garda authorities that there are 16 official mobile units allocated to the Coolock District and 14 mobile units allocated to Raheny District.

The Garda authorities have also informed me that the Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Area is satisfied that the present level of personnel is adequate in meeting the current policing needs. I am assured by the Garda authorities that the present policing arrangements are kept under continual review and any changes necessary are made.