Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Oct 1997

Vol. 482 No. 1

Written Answers. - Garda Clinic.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

117 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the Garda clinic at Donaghmede Shopping Centre, Dublin 13, is left closed at times it is supposed to be open which is so frustrating to local concerned residents. [17470/97]

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

The Garda authorities are responsible for the allocation of Garda personnel to different areas. They have informed me that the Garda clinic at Donaghmede is situated on the first floor within Donaghmede Shopping Centre complex and it is open to the public 6 days a week at the following times:

Monday/Tuesday/Saturday	11.00 a.m. — 12.00 midday
	3.00 p.m. — 4.00 p.m.
Wednesday/Thursday/Friday	11.00 a.m. — 12.00 midday
	3.00 p.m. — 4.00 p.m.
	7.00 p.m. — 8.00 p.m.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that due to the exigency of the service throughout the district at any given time, there are occasions when the Garda clinic may not be open during the designated times. However, local Garda management are satisfied that, although this may be the case, the policing service is still maintained in the Donaghmede area by regular patrols provided by both uniform and plain clothes personnel.

The Garda authorities wish to point out that the number of callers to the Garda clinic during opening times is quite small. They have informed me that the local district officer held a meeting recently with the Donaghmede residents association during which satisfaction with the Garda service provided in the area was expressed. I have been assured by the Garda authorities that the policing situation pertaining to the Donaghmede area is kept under continual review and changes are made as necessary.