Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Jun 2000

Vol. 522 No. 4

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

229 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when additional Garda personnel are likely to become available for deployment; if he will indicate to the Garda authorities that special emphasis on deployment of extra Garda personnel should be given to areas such as County Kildare where the population/Garda ratio is at 1:559 and is probably worse because of the growth in counties such as Kildare since the 1996 census; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19008/00]

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

I am continuing my policy of increasing the Garda strength annually with a view to reaching a target of 12,000 by the year 2002.

The availability of gardaí for deployment at any particular time depends on a number of factors including operational priorities, attestation of trainees, normally a group every three months, retirements, promotions and reassignments.

I am informed by the Garda authorities – who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda personnel and resources to individual areas – that Garda personnel strengths and the overall policing arrangements for the Carlow / Kildare division are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of available Garda resources and that the best possible service is provided to the community.

I am also informed that the allocation of resources is constantly kept under review and as personnel become available for allocation, the needs of Carlow-Kildare will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of other Garda divisions throughout the country.