The Deputy will be aware that the Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team, is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout the organisation and I have no function in this process. This allocation of resources is constantly monitored and reviewed where necessary, in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place on a District, Divisional and Regional level to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.
As of 29 April 2012 Abbeyleix Garda District and Portlaoise Garda District will be amalgamated and form the new Portlaoise Garda District as set out is the 2012 Policing Plan. I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of Abbeyleix Garda Station on 29 February 2012, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 24. The personnel strength of Abbeyleix Garda District on the same date was 37. In addition to this there is also 5 Garda Reserve members and 4 civilian personnel attached to Abbeyleix Garda Station.
All Divisional resources are further augmented by a number of Garda National Units such as the Garda National Drugs Unit, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and other specialised units, all of which have had increased resources.