Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 26 Feb 2002

Vol. 549 No. 3

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Denis Naughten

Question:

372 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in certain Garda districts (details supplied) on 31 December 1997 and 31 January 2002; his plans to appoint additional gardaí to each district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6836/02]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources to individual areas, that the personnel strength – all ranks – of Castlerea, Boyle, Carrick-on-Shannon and Tuam and Claremorris districts, as at 31 December 1997 and 31 January 2002, is as set out in the following table:

District	1997	2002
Castlerea	36	42
Boyle	32	37
Carrick-on-Shannon	41	40
Tuam	48	56
Claremorris	43	41*

*This reduction is due to two recent retirements

I am further informed that local Garda management is satisfied that the arrangements currently in place at Castlerea, Boyle, Carrick-on-Shannon, Tuam and Claremorris districts are adequate to meet the present policing needs of these areas. However, the situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available I am assured by the Garda authorities that the needs of the above districts will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country.