Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 1997

Vol. 480 No. 6

Written Answers - Garda Deployment.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

503 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether Balbriggan, with a population of almost 10,000 according to the 1996 Census, is in need of extra gardaí to serve the various needs in this growing community in view of the fact that currently the Balbriggan gardaí operate with only four gardaí per unit; and the plans, if any, he has to announce an increase in Garda manpower to bring the Garda in the area up to full strength. [14593/97]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue):

The deployment of Garda personnel and resources to different areas is a matter for the Garda authorities. They have informed me that the current strength (all ranks) at Balbriggan Garda station is 31 members. There are three mobile units allocated to Balbriggan Garda station which is open for 24 hours per day. The district patrol car operates on a 24 hour basis and is augmented by patrols performed by detective branch and crime unit members. I am also informed by the Garda authorities that there are 11 neighbourhood watch schemes in the Balbriggan Sub-District. Crime figures show a downward trend from 1995 to 1996 while the provisional figures for 1997 would indicate that this trend is continuing.

The divisional officer remains satisfied with the present policing arrangements and he feels that the present strength is adequate to meet the demands placed on the services. However, I am assured by the Garda authorities that policing arrangements are kept under continued review and changes made as necessary.