Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Crime Levels.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

852 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the national increase-decrease in crime figures as indicated by the Garda annual report for the years 1998 to 2001; the relevant figures for the Carlow-Kildare division for the same years; the average detection rate nationally for each year and the corresponding figures for the Carlow-Kildare division; the comparisons in relation to the numbers of gardaí assigned to the Carlow-Kildare division; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1769/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Statistics for the number of crimes recorded and detected, both in the Carlow-Kildare Garda division and nationally are published in the annual reports of the Garda Síochána, which are available in the Oireachtas Library. Garda numbers in the Carlow-Kildare division from 1998 to 2001 are as follows:

Year	Garda numbersCarlow/Kildare
1998	294
1999	307
2000	303
2001	321

I also understand that as of 23 January 2003 Garda strength stood at 325, which represents an increase of 31, or 11%, since December 1998. Garda personnel and overall policing arrangements for the Carlow-Kildare division are constantly monitored and reviewed by the Garda authorities. Such monitoring is designed to ensure that optimum use is made of available Garda resources and the best possible service is provided to the community. The situation will be kept under review by the Garda authorities and when additional personnel next become available the needs of the Carlow-Kildare division will be fully considered within the context of the overall needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.