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Garda Deployment.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 December 2004

Wednesday, 15 December 2004

Questions (200)

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

214 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of any review of Garda rostering which has been carried out in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33828/04]

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Written answers

The Garda strategic management initiative report recommended a fundamental review of the rostering system to ensure that Garda personnel are more readily available at peak demand times. As a result of this recommendation a new rostering framework was developed following consultations and agreement with Garda staff associations.

The main benefit of the new roster is a more appropriate match between availability of gardaí for duty and demands on the service. Consequently, Garda management can ensure a greater operational police presence on the streets at peak times.

Under the new roster system, superintendents can determine the number of members required to meet demands at peak times. Other members can be detailed for non-peak times on the early and night tours of duty.

An agreed pilot scheme was implemented in the cities of Cork, Limerick and Waterford between 20 March 2000 and 28 October 2002 in respect of those stations where the three-relief system operates, namely a shift system covering 24 hours. Consultation took place between Garda management and the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors and the Garda Representative Association during the pilot roster. Having consulted with both associations, the Commissioner introduced this roster on a permanent basis in the cities of Cork, Limerick and Waterford from 28 October 2002.

In relation to the Dublin Metropolitan Region, further work on the pilot roster is being undertaken by the Assistant Commissioner, Dublin Metropolitan Region, and the organisation development unit, Garda headquarters.

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