Vol. 482 No. 3
315 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Garda numbers attached to the Garda station in Moate, County Westmeath for each of the past ten years; if his attention has been drawn to the demands on Garda time in this area because of Moate's strategic location on the N6 and other important routes; and if he will give a commitment to maintain Garda numbers at this station. [17965/97]
The detailed deployment of Garda personnel to individual areas is a matter for the Garda authorities. They have informed me that the strength of Moate Garda station for the past ten years and until the retirement of a Garda there on 24 May 1997, was one sergeant and five gardaí. Since that date the strength of the station has been one sergeant and four gardaí.
Moate is situated on the N6 route which is the main Dublin-Galway Road and consequently the volume of traffic through the area is considerable. However, I understand from the Garda authorities that Garda patrols are performed to optimum effect with the result that traffic generally flows freely.
The Garda authorities have informed me that they are satisfied that the policing needs of the Moate area are being adequately met with the current deployment of personnel resources. However, they have assured me that the situation will be monitored and reviewed with a view to ensuring that a satisfactory policing service to the area is maintained.
