Theresa Ahearn
Question:517 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide a drugs unit for Tipperary town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14860/97]
Written Answers - Garda Deployment.
Theresa Ahearn
Question:518 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in Tipperary town; the proposals, if any, he has to increase the number of gardaí in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14861/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 517 and 518 together. The detailed allocation of Garda personnel and resources to different areas is a matter for the Garda authorities.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current manpower strength (as of 31/8/97) of Tipperary Garda station is 27 members (all ranks) and they have no plans at present to assign additional gardaí to the station. The gardaí in the area enjoy strong levels of support and co-operation from the community they serve. They are also alert to the need to deal with any drugs problem and, in fact, have carried out 61 searches under drugs legislation in the last two years in the area.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a decision on the establishment of a specialised unit must be considered in the context of the potential benefits of having such a unit and the potential loss of redeploying Garda members from regular (non-specialised) duties. The gardaí are not satisfied, at present, of the need to establish a local drugs unit in Tipperary town. The matter will remain under review, however, with due regard to operational requirements.