Garda Deployment.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 February 2006

Tuesday, 7 February 2006

Questions (358)

Enda Kenny

Question:

445 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí appointed to immigration duties at Knock Airport on a daily basis; if the gardaí doing immigration duty are drawn from the permanent Garda force in the Swinford area; his views on whether this arrangement is satisfactory; and if he will give consideration to the appointment of a specific number of gardaí to deal with immigration control work on a more regular basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4045/06]

Written answers

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

Four members of An Garda Síochána are employed on immigration duties at Knock Airport. These members are drawn from the permanent Garda force in Swinford district in which the airport is located. When not employed on immigration duties at the airport these members are available for deployment on other policing duties within the district. Garda management is satisfied with the current arrangements for the provision of immigration services at the airport. The matter remains under review having regard to operational demands and resource availability.