Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2015
313. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality to set out the way Garda resources have been re-allocated from crime fighting measures to police water protests; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8842/15]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel, among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources. I have no function in the process.
The statutory functions of An Garda Síochána include the preservation of peace and public order, protecting life and property and vindicating the human rights of individuals. Accordingly, Gardaí have attended routinely at water meter installations and protests where it has been necessary to perform these functions.
