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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 1

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Austin Currie

Question:

548 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a number of armed raids at the Littlepace Shopping Centre, Clonee, County Dublin (details supplied); if there is a lack of Garda manpower to deal with the situation; his plans to rectify the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11363/02]

The Deputy will appreciate that, with regard to the specific incidents referred to, the investigation of criminal complaints is an operational matter for the Garda authorities. I have brought all correspondence on the matter to their attention.

In response to the general points raised, I am informed by the Garda authorities that Littlepace shopping centre is situated in a residential housing estate which is policed by Blanchardstown Garda station. The personnel strength of 124, all ranks, at Blanchardstown Garda station as at 15 April 2002, when compared to a figure of 89 on 31 December 1997, represents an increase of 35, or 39%, in personnel since the latter date. A community Garda is assigned to the Littlepace area and resources are augmented from within the division as required.

I am also informed that regular patrolling of the area is augmented by the district detective unit, district drug unit, divisional task force and divisional traffic unit. Garda management is satisfied that the arrangements currently in place at Blanchardstown are adequate to meet the present policing needs of the area. However the situation will be kept under review and when additional manpower becomes available the needs of this area will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country.

Austin Currie

Question:

549 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the concern of the North Clondalkin Community Development Association that there are insufficient gardaí at Ronanstown Garda Station to provide regular patrols, to deal quickly with anti-social behaviour, to increase involvement in youth and community activities and to provide increased security in housing estates and local neighbourhood centres; if he will ensure an increase in Garda manpower and resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11380/02]

I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources to individual areas, that the current strength, all ranks, at Ronanstown Garda station, as at 15 April, 2002, is 71. This compares to a figure of 58 on 31 January 1997 and represents an increase of 13, or 22%, in the personnel allocated to the Garda station since that date. Garda management is satisfied that the arrangements currently in place at Ronanstown are adequate to meet the present policing needs of the area. The situation will be kept under review and when additional manpower next becomes available the needs of Ronanstown will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country.

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