Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 March 2012
167 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the community policing arrangements that will be put in place now that he has directed the closure of Tourmakeady Garda station, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11922/12]
View answerTourmakeady is in the Castlebar District and the Garda strength of that District, as of the 31 January 2012, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 83. These resources are augmented by 12 civilian staff who provide vital technical and administrative support in the Castlebar District and free up sworn officers for operational duty. While the number of dedicated Community Gardaí in Castlebar station is 2, all Gardaí have responsibility to deal with Community Policing issues as and when they arise.The Commissioner is committed to providing a professional and effective service to the community, both urban and rural.
The importance of the partnership between An Garda Síochána and the community in preventing and detecting crime and maintaining a safe environment for everyone can never be over-emphasised and the pledge of An Garda Síochána is to continue to invest time and energy in those partnerships and relationships to the benefit of all. It is intended where possible that the resources presently assigned to Tourmakeady Garda station will remain in the Castlebar District, subject at all times to operational requirements as determined by the Commissioner.
