Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 11 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 1

Written Answers. - Crime Levels.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

151 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the number of break-ins to property which have taken place in Craughwell, County Galway, over the past number of months; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that the village is under policed; the steps, if any, he will take to ensure there will be an increase in the garda presence in a village that is expanding very rapidly; if he will ensure there is an extra Garda car in the area every night together with extra garda presence during the day to allay the fears of local residents and to deter raiders and robbers from coming to Craughwell; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13189/00]

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

I am informed by Garda authorities that the crime figures for Craughwell since 1 January 2000 show that three crimes have been reported. This is in line with average figures for the past three years. I should add that these figures are provisional and subject to change.

I am also informed that three gardaí are attached to Craughwell Garda station and that various crime prevention operations have been put in place in the Gort district.

I understand that Garda management is satisfied that the preventative measures and patrols in place are adequate, and that the strength of Gort Garda district which includes Craughwell station is sufficient to meet demands.