Vol. 566 No. 1
654 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he continues to liaise with the Garda authorities in respect of the need for additional Garda numbers in Tallaght, Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Tallaght is the third largest population centre in the State and clearly has special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11952/03]
I have been advised by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the day-to-day allocation of resources, including personnel, to individual areas, that the current personnel strength of Tallaght Garda station is 156 (all ranks). This represents an increase of 23 (or 17.3%) in the personnel allocated to Tallaght Garda station since 31 December 1997.
The personnel strength of Tallaght Garda station together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, is monitored and reviewed by the Garda Síochána on an ongoing basis. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. I am further informed that the situation will be kept under review and when additional resources next become available, the needs of Tallaght Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.
