Vol. 500 No. 4
314 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the plans, if any, she has to improve public safety in St Stephen's Green and Iveagh Gardens, Dublin 2; the number of existing rangers at work; the number out sick; the length of time these people have been out sick; the number of established positions; the plans, if any, she has to change or modernise the park ranger service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4282/99]
My Department is very conscious of the importance of public safety to ensure the public's enjoyment of the facilities at St. Stephen's Green and the Iveagh Gardens, and to ensure this maintains close liaison with the Garda authorities who patrol the Green on a daily basis.
I am informed that there are six full-time park constable positions and one temporary summer position. Other members of the St. Stephen's Green staff also assist in covering the constable duties as required.
For security reasons I am sending details concerning the sick leave situation directly to the Deputy.
I understand a new roster is at an advanced stage of negotiation between management, staff and the union and this should enhance the operation of the park constable service.
