Jim Higgins
Question:286 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a Garda station (details supplied) in County Meath will operate on a 24 hour basis. [20568/01]
Written Answers. - Garda Stations.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of personnel and resources to individual areas, that the current manpower strength at the station in question is eight.
The station referred to is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday 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.
Resources are augmented from within the division as required. The area is patrolled by the patrol car from the district headquarters and traffic units based in nearby stations.
I am further informed that the extension of the current opening hours to 24 hours would necessitate the employment of Garda personnel on indoor administrative duties. Such personnel can be utilised more effectively in providing a visible Garda presence on outdoor policing duties.