Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2012
162. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will clarify the geographical area which will be covered by the newly enlarged Garda districts of Ballina and Claremorris County Mayo under the proposed district amalgamations and boundary realignments set out in the 2013 policing plan of an Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55903/12]
View answerIn accordance with the provisions of the Garda Síochána Acts, proposals to change Garda District geographical boundaries are a matter in the first instance for the Garda Commissioner, in the context of the Annual Policing Plan.
Proposals to amalgamate a number of Garda District have been included by the Garda Commissioner in his Policing Plan for 2013. This has been done following a comprehensive review of current District structures carried out by the Garda authorities. In particular, the review was designed to identify strategic reforms which would lead to increased efficiencies, improved operational capacity and enhanced Garda service delivery.
It is in this context that the Commissioner has proposed the amalgamation of the Swinford Garda District with the Claremorris District. Following the amalgamation, both stations will continue to provide a 24 hour policing service. The new enlarged Claremorris District will cover the subdistricts of Swinford, Claremorris, Ballinrobe, Knock, Kilmaine, Shrule, Cong, Ballyhaunis, Ballindine, Charlestown, Kiltimagh and Kilkelly. In addition, the subdistrict of Foxford will be transferred to the Ballina Garda District.
