Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:330 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason there are only two gardaí available for ordinary duties each night shift in the Coolock area. [19361/03]
Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the day to day allocation of resources, that the personnel strength of Coolock Garda station as at 1 July 2003 is 84, all ranks. Local Garda management is satisfied that it is incorrect to state that there are only two gardaí available for ordinary duties each nightshift in the Coolock area and that resources at Coolock Garda station are adequate to perform all duties, including nightshifts.
Resources are augmented from within the district-division as required. The area is also patrolled by the district detective unit, community policing unit, district drugs unit, divisional crime task force and the divisional traffic unit. Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in Coolock Garda station with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained. I am assured that the situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Coolock Garda Station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.