Vol. 530 No. 6
377 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself with the level of garda presence in rural areas in particular Bagnalstown, County Carlow; and if the level of crime, in particular burglary, has increased in the Bagenalstown area. [4829/01]
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of personnel and resources to individual areas, that Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible service is provided to the general public. Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed nation wide, with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained.
With regard to the location referred to by the Deputy, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current personnel strength, all ranks, of Muine Bheag Garda Station is six and that the station is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., Monday to Saturday inclusive, and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.
When not open, PACB and call diversion systems are in operation and linked to the District Headquarters at Carlow Garda Station, which opens on a 24 hour basis.
There is one marked patrol car permanently allocated to Muine Bheag Garda Station. Resources are augmented from within the division as required. The area is patrolled regularly by both the divisional traffic unit and the district detective branch.
