Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 8 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 2

Written Answers. - Garda Stations.

Michael Ring

Question:

187 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda station in Ballinrobe, County Mayo, will stay open longer now that there is a new station there; the cost of the new Garda station in Ballinrobe; the number of gardaí who have been there for the past five years; and if he will increase the number of gardaí there. [12454/03]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the opening hours of Ballinrobe Garda station, County Mayo, are from 11 am to 1 pm on Monday to Saturday inclusive and 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. Local Garda management is satisfied that the current opening hours of Ballinrobe Garda station are adequate to meet the present policing needs of the area. Accordingly, there are currently no plans to alter these opening hours.

The extension of the current opening hours would necessitate the employment of Garda personnel on indoor administrative duties. Such personnel can be utilised more effectively in providing a visible Garda presence on outdoor policing duties. The Office of Public Works has estimated the construction cost of the new station at €1,008,000.

The personnel strength of Ballinrobe Garda station as at 31 March each year for the last five years is as set out hereunder:

Year	Strength
1999	7
2000	9
2001	8
2002	8
2003	9

The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available, the needs of Ballinrobe Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of the Garda stations throughout the country.