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Garda Deployment

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 October 2012

Wednesday, 24 October 2012

Questions (193)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

193. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the need to ensure an adequate spread of Garda strength throughout urban and rural areas with a view to creating a police visibility that will act as a deterrent to all forms of crime including organised crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46796/12]

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Written answers

The Deputy will be aware that the Commissioner is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout the organisation and I have no direct function in the matter. This allocation of resources is constantly monitored 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.

There are many reforms being introduced in the Garda Síochána including a new Garda roster which ensures that the maximum number of Gardai are on duty when the demands on them are the highest. The Commissioner also introduced Operation Fiacla which targets those engaged in criminal activity such as burglaries in communities across the country. To date 2,493 persons have been arrested and 1,404 persons have been charged as part of Operation Fiacla, reflecting the very substantial efforts being made to tackle this particular problem by the Gardaí.

The Garda Commissioner has reiterated the commitment of An Garda Síochána to continue to provide a professional and effective policing service within the prevailing economic conditions. An Garda Síochána can never over-emphasise the importance of partnership with local communities in preventing and detecting crime and maintaining a safe environment for everyone. The pledge of An Garda Síochána is to continue to invest time and energy in those partnerships and relationships to the benefit of all.

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