Charlie McConalogue
Question:70. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to reopen a Garda Station (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46376/13]
View answerTuesday, 5 November 2013
Questions (70, 84)
Charlie McConalogue
Question:84. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason a Garda station (details supplied) in County Donegal is closed despite the fact that the station has not been listed for closure; when the station will reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46375/13]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 70 and 84 together.
Ramelton Garda station has not been identified for closure and currently there are no proposals being prepared to close Ramelton Garda station. I have however been informed by the Garda Commissioner that circumstances of a temporary nature have necessitated augmenting the policing service provided to Ramelton with personnel from nearby stations. Arrangements have been made to have the station opened to the public periodically and the opening hours are posted at the station for the information of the public.
I have been further informed by the Garda Commissioner that the public in Ramelton are advised via signs at the station to contact Milford in the event that a Garda Service is required, and phone callers to the station are automatically diverted to Milford Garda Station.
A comprehensive policing service for Ramelton is provided from the nearby District Headquarters in Milford on a 24 hour basis. This service is supplemented by staff from the nearby sub-station in Rathmullen in addition to the resources available from the Divisional Traffic & Detective Units.
The Deputy should also be aware that while the Policing plans for 2014 and 2015 have not yet been prepared, I understand, from discussions with the Garda Commissioner, that the current consolidation process will be largely completed by the end of this year and it seems unlikely at this point in time that there will be any further station closures in 2014 and 2015.