Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Oct 1997

Vol. 482 No. 1

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

116 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda members currently working in Howth, Raheny and Coolock stations; and if he has satisfied himself that the numbers concerned are sufficient to serve and protect 100,000 people. [17469/97]

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

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 relating to personnel on a district basis. The district strength figures incorporate all ranks, are valid for 31 September 1997 and are as follows:

District Headquarters	District Strength (all ranks as of 31/9/97)
Coolock	168
Raheny(Howth Garda Station is part of Raheny Garda District)	147

I am assured by the Garda authorities that they are satisfied with the allocation of Garda resources to the districts concerned and the policing service that is offered from these districts.