Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 13 Nov 2001

Vol. 543 No. 5

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

473 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí deployed to the various stations in County Kildare; if the population of the county suggests a need for an increase in personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28054/01]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of personnel and resources to individual areas, that the current personnel strength of all ranks as at 1 November of the Garda districts which police County Kildare is as follows:

District	Number ofStations	Total Districtstrength
Naas	5	118
Kildare	7	72
Carlow	2	77
Baltinglass	2	56
Lucan	1	155
Ashbourne	1	68

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that up to date population statistics are not currently available. Population statistics are only one of a number of factors used by the Garda authorities in determining the appropriate personnel strength of a Garda district.