Vol. 566 No. 1
653 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the success of the community policing schemes in Tallaght, Dublin 24; if the attention of the Garda authorities has been drawn to the importance of strongly supporting community policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11951/03]
I am aware that community policing initiatives are in place in Tallaght and I fully support such schemes. I am, indeed, informed that the community policing schemes which operate in Tallaght are also in operation in many other parts of the city and country. Community policing is a way of providing a policing service to the whole community both urban and rural, through the fostering of community commitment. In the provision of that service, An Garda Síochána aims to involve the community to the maximum achievable level in deciding on policing priorities and the appropriate level of service to be provided.
The Garda authorities are aware and provide strong support for community policing through Garda community relations section, Harcourt Square and through local Garda management.
