Written Answers Nos. 63 - 82
63. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Justice and Equality why the Judicial Council Bill and the issue of the reform to judicial appointments have not been progressed through the Houses of the Oireachtas during this Government's term of office to date. [42460/15]
View answerThe Deputy will appreciate that this question concerns two separate matters.
The Government continues to be committed to bring forward a Judicial Council Bill but for reasons the Deputy will be familiar with, has had to give way to other pressing priorities in the legislative area. The Government Legislative Programme which was published on 22 September includes the Judicial Council Bill amongst those Bills which are expected to be published in the period from the commencement of the current Dáil session to the start of the next session. The Bill has been the subject of extensive consultation with the judiciary, and my Department is working closely with the Office of the Attorney General to bring it to an early conclusion. I remain committed to advancing this legislation within a speedy timeframe.
As regards judicial appointments, a consultation process relating to the system of such appointments was conducted in 2014 with the intention of instituting reforms to enhance the current system. The need to ensure and protect the principle of judicial independence was a significant factor in initiating the consultation process. Further, while the Judicial Appointments Advisory Board process was a model of best practice in its day, almost 20 years from its establishment it was considered worthwhile to review the operation of the entire judicial appointments system to ensure it reflects current best practice, that it is open, transparent and accountable and that it promotes diversity.
There was a significant response to the call for submissions and, arising from the consultation process, draft legislative provisions to reform and update judicial appointment procedures are being prepared by my Department. The review, and reform of this area which is of critical importance to the functioning of our system of justice, provides an opportunity to determine how to best respond to the expectations and needs of a modern State. I anticipate that legislation in the matter will be published in 2016.
64. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the additional resources that will be made available to An Garda Síochána in County Galway under Operation Thor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42419/15]
View answerOperation Thor is a multi-stranded national operation which builds on previous and current Garda operations to tackle crime, particularly burglaries the number of which, as we know, increase with the advent of the long winter nights, in both urban and rural communities nationwide. In excess of €5 million is being committed to support Operation Thor. This allocation, which includes funding for Garda overtime will support a combination of additional patrols, checkpoints, rapid armed response and public awareness measures.
This special, targeted operation has to be seen in the context of the major investment that this Government is making in An Garda Síochána. The 2016 Budget allocation of €1.5 billion for An Garda Síochána includes over €67 million in additional funding which will allow the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year on top of the 550 Gardaí recruited since this Government reopened the Garda College in September 2014. It will also provide additional funding for Garda Surveillance, special operations and targeted, intelligence-led policing. This additional recruitment and budget allocation builds on the current high level of investment in Garda vehicles. We have invested over €34 million in new Garda vehicles since 2012 with over 640 new vehicles coming on stream in 2015, ranging from more Garda patrol cars to high-powered vehicles for armed units. The Government's Capital Plan 2016-2021 provides for a further €46 million of investment in vehicles as well as an additional €200 million for Information and Communications Technology which will allow An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting edge technologies in the fight against crime. We are also investing in airborne surveillance. Taken together, this step-change in investment in policing will ensure that the Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive, on the roads and in the community.
Operation Thor entails a broad range of activities to tackle burglars, organised crime gangs and prolific offenders as well as working with communities to prevent crime. These activities include: additional high-visibility patrols in identified burglary hot-spots; increased use of checkpoints to tackle the criminal gangs using the national road network; the use of new high powered vehicles by the armed Regional Response Units; efforts to disrupt the stolen goods market; programmes to help reduce re-offending by prolific offenders; a high-profile national crime prevention awareness campaign, and targeted crime prevention advice for local communities and enhanced supports for victims.
The Commissioner, in consultation with her senior management team, is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including the additional allocation of the €5 million to support Operation Thor. The Commissioner has assured me that she will aim to maximise the use of these additional resources. A large proportion of domestic burglaries are committed by serial offenders. Figures from the Garda Síochána Analysis Service indicate that 75% of burglaries are committed by 25% of burglars. Targeting these prolific offenders is a priority, consequently the allocation of resources under Operation Thor will be intelligence led and based on analysis of crime patterns by An Garda Síochána. The aim is to deploy resources in advance of where An Garda Síochána anticipate crime might take place in order to prevent the crime occurring.
In this context the Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible to detail the additional resources that will be made available to any one County under Operation Thor. However the Commissioner will continually review the allocation of resources under the Operation, taking into account crime trends and policing priorities across the Garda Regions so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources. I am confident that this comprehensive operation by An Garda Síochána, supported by Government investment, will help disrupt the activities of burglars, organised crime gangs and prolific offenders and will improve the safety of all our communities across the country.
65. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality given the controversy surrounding advice given to the Minister for Finance relating to the Commission of Investigation into Certain Irish Bank Resolution Corporation transactions, and the timing and content of this advice, if she will review the Official Secrets Act; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40608/15]
View answerThere is a commitment in the Programme for Government to amend the Official Secrets Act 1963.
An analysis of the impact of the Freedom of Information and Protected Disclosures Acts on the Official Secrets Act is required in order to assess the extent of any necessary change.
Any issues arising in relation to the Commission of Investigation into Certain Irish Bank Resolution Corporation Transactions concerning the Official Secrets Act will be considered in that context.
66. Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Síochána stations and the number of gardaí in each station in County Wexford on 1 November 2010 and on 1 November 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42414/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that list of stations and the number of Gardaí assigned to those stations in the Wexford Division on the 31 October 2010 and on the 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables.
This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective, visible policing throughout the country. A crucial element of the Government's strategy is ongoing seamless recruitment to renew An Garda Síochána. With this in mind Budget 2016 made provision for the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year bringing to 1,150 the number of new Gardaí that will be recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore in September 2014. So far 295 of those new recruits are fully attested and are on the ground in communities nationwide.
I was very pleased to announce the commencement of the recruitment campaign for 2016 last Friday, 27 November. It is being organised by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Garda Commissioner. Applications must be made through www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. Successful candidates can expect to enter the Garda College from June 2016 onwards.
Wexford Garda Division 2010
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
WEXFORD |
BLACKWATER |
3 |
|
|
CLONROCHE |
2 |
||
|
ENNISCORTHY |
42 |
||
|
FERNS |
3 |
||
|
KILTEALY |
1 |
||
|
OULART |
1 |
||
|
OYLEGATE |
2 |
||
|
ENNISCORTHY |
Total |
54 |
|
|
BUNCLODY |
8 |
||
|
COURTOWN HARBOUR |
2 |
||
|
GOREY |
55 |
||
|
GOREY |
Total |
65 |
|
|
BALLYCULLANE |
2 |
||
|
BALLYWILLIAM |
0 |
||
|
CAMPILE |
2 |
||
|
CARRICK-ON-BANNOW |
1 |
||
|
CARRICKBYRNE |
2 |
||
|
DUNCANNON |
4 |
||
|
NEW ROSS |
43 |
||
|
NEW ROSS |
Total |
54 |
|
|
BALDWINSTOWN |
1 |
||
|
CASTLEBRIDGE |
3 |
||
|
GLYNN |
1 |
||
|
KILMORE QUAY |
2 |
||
|
ROSSLARE HARBOUR |
7 |
||
|
ROSSLARE STRAND |
2 |
||
|
TAGHMON |
3 |
||
|
WEXFORD |
93 |
||
|
WEXFORD |
Total |
112 |
|
|
Total |
25 Stations |
285 |
Wexford Garda Division 31 October 2015
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
WEXFORD |
BLACKWATER |
2 |
|
|
BUNCLODY |
7 |
||
|
CLONROCHE |
2 |
||
|
COURTOWN HARBOUR |
4 |
||
|
ENNISCORTHY |
40 |
||
|
FERNS |
2 |
||
|
GOREY |
43 |
||
|
OULART |
2 |
||
|
ENNISCORTHY |
OYLEGATE |
1 |
|
|
Total |
103 |
||
|
BALLYCULLANE |
1 |
||
|
CARRICKBYRNE |
1 |
||
|
CARRICK-ON-BANNOW |
1 |
||
|
DUNCANNON |
3 |
||
|
NEW ROSS |
NEW ROSS |
42 |
|
|
Total |
48 |
||
|
CASTLEBRIDGE |
2 |
||
|
KILMORE QUAY |
2 |
||
|
ROSSLARE HARBOUR |
7 |
||
|
ROSSLARE STRAND |
1 |
||
|
TAGHMON |
3 |
||
|
WEXFORD |
WEXFORD |
89 |
|
|
Total |
104 |
||
|
WEXFORD |
20 Stations |
255 |
67. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí and Garda Síochána stations in the Togher district in the Cork city Garda division on 1 November 2010 and on 1 November 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42412/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that list of stations and the number of Gardaí assigned to those stations in the Togher District on the 31 October 2010 and on the 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables.
This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective, visible policing throughout the country. A crucial element of the Government's strategy is ongoing seamless recruitment to renew An Garda Síochána. With this in mind Budget 2016 made provision for the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year bringing to 1,150 the number of new Gardaí that will be recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore in September 2014. So far 295 of those new recruits are fully attested and are on the ground in communities nationwide.
I was very pleased to announce the commencement of the recruitment campaign for 2016 last Friday, 27 November. It is being organised by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Garda Commissioner. Applications must be made through www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. Successful candidates can expect to enter the Garda College from June 2016 onwards.
Togher Garda District 31 October 2010
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BISHOPSTOWN |
23 |
||
|
CARRIGALINE |
21 |
||
|
CROSSHAVEN |
3 |
||
|
DOUGLAS |
28 |
||
|
PASSAGE WEST |
4 |
||
|
TOGHER |
59 |
||
|
CORK CITY |
TOGHER |
6 Stations Total |
138 |
Togher Garda District 31 October 2015
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BISHOPSTOWN |
21 |
||
|
CARRIGALINE |
19 |
||
|
CROSSHAVEN |
2 |
||
|
DOUGLAS |
23 |
||
|
PASSAGE WEST |
2 |
||
|
TOGHER |
49 |
||
|
CORK CITY |
TOGHER |
6 Stations Total |
116 |
68. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Síochána stations and the number of gardaí in each station in County Laois and in County Offaly on 1 November 2010 and on 1 November 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42416/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that list of stations and the number of Gardaí assigned to those stations in the Laois/Offlay Division on the 31 October 2010 and on the 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables.
This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective, visible policing throughout the country. A crucial element of the Government's strategy is ongoing seamless recruitment to renew An Garda Síochána. With this in mind Budget 2016 made provision for the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year bringing to 1,150 the number of new Gardaí that will be recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore in September 2014. So far 295 of those new recruits are fully attested and are on the ground in communities nationwide.
I was very pleased to announce the commencement of the recruitment campaign for 2016 last Friday, 27 November. It is being organised by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Garda Commissioner. Applications must be made through www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. Successful candidates can expect to enter the Garda College from June 2016 onwards.
Laois/Offaly Division 31 October 2010
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
ABBEYLEIX |
28 |
||
|
ARLES |
2 |
||
|
BALLACOLLA |
1 |
||
|
BALLINAKILL |
1 |
||
|
BALLYLINAN |
4 |
||
|
BORRIS-IN-OSSORY |
1 |
||
|
DURROW |
2 |
||
|
RATHDOWNEY |
4 |
||
|
ABBEYLEIX |
Total |
43 |
|
|
BANAGHER |
5 |
||
|
BIRR |
29 |
||
|
CLOGHAN |
1 |
||
|
FERBANE |
5 |
||
|
KILCORMAC |
2 |
||
|
KINNITTY |
1 |
||
|
SHANNONBRIDGE |
1 |
||
|
SHINRONE |
2 |
||
|
BIRR |
Total |
46 |
|
|
CLONASLEE |
2 |
||
|
MOUNTMELLICK |
7 |
||
|
MOUNTRATH |
4 |
||
|
PORTARLINGTON |
14 |
||
|
PORTLAOISE |
114 |
||
|
STRADBALLY |
2 |
||
|
PORTLAOISE |
Total |
143 |
|
|
CLARA |
5 |
||
|
CLONBOLOGUE |
0 |
||
|
DAINGEAN |
2 |
||
|
EDENDERRY |
13 |
||
|
GEASHILL |
0 |
||
|
RHODE |
2 |
||
|
TULLAMORE |
80 |
||
|
TULLAMORE |
Total |
102 |
|
|
LEIX / OFFALY |
Total |
29 Stations |
334 |
Garda Division of Laois/Offaly on 31 October 2015
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BANAGHER |
5 |
||
|
BIRR |
25 |
||
|
CLOGHAN |
1 |
||
|
FERBANE |
5 |
||
|
KILCORMAC |
2 |
||
|
BIRR |
KINNITTY |
1 |
|
|
Total |
39 |
||
|
ABBEYLEIX |
19 |
||
|
ARLES |
2 |
||
|
BALLYLINAN |
2 |
||
|
BORRIS-IN-OSSORY |
1 |
||
|
CLONASLEE |
1 |
||
|
DURROW |
1 |
||
|
MOUNTMELLICK |
6 |
||
|
MOUNTRATH |
3 |
||
|
PORTARLINGTON |
12 |
||
|
PORTLAOISE |
99 |
||
|
RATHDOWNEY |
3 |
||
|
PORTLAOISE |
STRADBALLY |
2 |
|
|
Total |
151 |
||
|
CLARA |
3 |
||
|
DAINGEAN |
2 |
||
|
EDENDERRY |
14 |
||
|
RHODE |
1 |
||
|
TULLAMORE |
TULLAMORE |
70 |
|
|
LAOIS/OFFALY |
Total |
90 |
|
|
LAOIS/OFFALY Total |
23 Stations |
280 |
69. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the measures she will take to tackle the discrimination faced by members of the Traveller community; if she will support the establishment of a Traveller agency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42395/15]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that there is a consultation process underway led by my Department to develop a new National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy. Phase 1 (identification of key themes for the new Strategy) has been completed, and Phase 2 (identification and agreement of high-level objectives under each agreed theme) will commence shortly. The final Phase, Phase 3 (identification of detailed actions to achieve each agreed objective, with associated timescales, Key Performance Indicators, institutional responsibilities and monitoring arrangements), will commence in early 2016 and conclude also in early 2016 with the presentation of a new Strategy for Government approval.
This process will give us a new Traveller Inclusion Strategy and a set of very real actions that need to be taken to bring about a real improvement in quality of life for Travellers. The question of whether revised institutional arrangements for delivery of services to Travellers are necessary to bring about greater coherence in and improve the effectiveness of statutory services for the Traveller community has been raised during the ongoing consultation process and, as indicated on behalf of the Government during the recent debate in the House on the question of recognition of Travellers as an ethnic group, will be considered in the drafting of the new Inclusion Strategy.
70. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in the Henry Street and Roxboro districts on 1 November 2010 and on 1 November 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42424/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that list of stations and the number of Gardaí assigned to those stations in the Henry Street and Roxboro Districts on the 31 October 2010 and on the 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables.
This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective, visible policing throughout the country. A crucial element of the Government's strategy is ongoing seamless recruitment to renew An Garda Síochána. With this in mind Budget 2016 made provision for the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year bringing to 1,150 the number of new Gardaí that will be recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore in September 2014. So far 295 of those new recruits are fully attested and are on the ground in communities nationwide.
I was very pleased to announce the commencement of the recruitment campaign for 2016 last Friday, 27 November. It is being organised by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Garda Commissioner. Applications must be made through www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. Successful candidates can expect to enter the Garda College from June 2016 onwards.
Henry Street and Roxboro Road Districts 31 Oct 2010
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
ARDNACRUSHA |
3 |
||
|
CASTLECONNELL |
4 |
||
|
HENRY STREET |
268 |
||
|
MARY STREET |
18 |
||
|
MAYORSTONE PARK |
84 |
||
|
HENRY STREET |
Total |
377 |
|
|
BALLYNEETY |
0 |
||
|
CAHERCONLISH |
1 |
||
|
PATRICKSWELL |
0 |
||
|
ROXBORO ROAD |
140 |
||
|
LIMERICK |
ROXBORO ROAD |
9 Stations Total |
141 |
Henry Street and Roxboro Road Districts 31 Oct 2015
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
ARDNACRUSHA |
3 |
||
|
CASTLECONNELL |
4 |
||
|
HENRY STREET |
233 |
||
|
MAYORSTONE PARK |
71 |
||
|
HENRY STREET |
Total |
311 |
|
|
BALLYNEETY |
2 |
||
|
CAHERCONLISH |
1 |
||
|
PATRICKSWELL |
2 |
||
|
ROXBORO ROAD |
121 |
||
|
LIMERICK |
ROXBORO ROAD |
8 Stations Total |
126 |
71. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the numbers of new gardaí since the resumption of recruitment, by county; and her views on the current status of the community Garda role, which has been a successful element of An Garda Síochána. [42386/15]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel, including new probationer Gardaí, among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of resources.
This Government is committed to the ongoing recruitment of trainee Gardaí, and to this end the first intake since 2009 of new recruits commenced training at the Garda College, Templemore, in September of last year. To date there have been six intakes of Garda Trainees to the Garda College, giving a total intake of 550. So far 295 of the new Garda Trainees have attested as members of An Garda Síochána. On attestation, new probationer Gardaí are assigned to stations throughout the country by the Garda Commissioner, where they are assigned to mainstream uniform policing duties. I am assured by Garda management that the needs of all Garda Divisions are fully considered when determining the allocation of new probationer Gardaí. The table sets out the Division breakdown of the distribution of the 295 probationer Gardaí.
The Deputy will be aware that I announced the opening of a recruitment campaign for new members of An Garda Síochána last Friday 27 November. This new campaign is necessary to fulfil the Government’s commitment to recruit 600 Gardaí in 2016. The 600 new Gardaí to be recruited next year will bring to 1,150 the total number of new recruits since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014. This ramped-up recruitment underscores the determination of this Government to deliver an effective, responsive police service to protect our communities and respond to emerging crime trends.
The Public Appointments Service (PAS) is organising the recruitment competition on behalf of the Garda Commissioner and applications may be made through the PAS website at www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016.
A key part of An Garda Síochána strategy in the fight against crime is to work in partnership with the community. As of 31 October the latest date for which figures are available there were 813 dedicated Community Gardaí working and engaging with communities both urban and rural.
It is, of course, the case that all Gardaí have a role to play in addressing community policing issues as and when the need arises. In that sense, community policing involves far more than a single unit within An Garda Síochána, a point highlighted by the Garda Inspectorate in their third report entitled "Policing in Ireland — Looking Forward" in which they stated that community policing is a fundamental policing philosophy and that there is a strong foundation for it in Ireland.
An Garda Síochána now operates a model of Community Policing which aims to build upon and enhance progress made so far. I fully support this renewed emphasis on Community Policing particularly in light of the priority given to this in the Programme for Government. The model is about renewing, reinvigorating and restructuring the community policing function within An Garda Síochána to deliver a consistent national structure to the community policing function, a more co-ordinated and efficient Garda service to the community and a spread of good practice and quality of service in community policing on a national basis.
Distribution of Probationer Gardaí 2015 by Division
|
DMR East |
10 |
DMR North |
19 |
|
DMR North Central |
23 |
DMR South |
19 |
|
DMR South Central |
20 |
DMR West |
30 |
|
Kildare |
15 |
Laois/Offaly |
9 |
|
Meath |
5 |
Westmeath |
5 |
|
Wicklow |
10 |
Cavan/Monaghan |
10 |
|
Donegal |
10 |
Louth |
10 |
|
Sligo/Leitrim |
5 |
Kilkenny/Carlow |
10 |
|
Tipperary |
5 |
Waterford |
14 |
|
Wexford |
15 |
Cork City |
7 |
|
Cork North |
0 |
Cork West |
5 |
|
Kerry |
10 |
Limerick |
9 |
|
Clare |
10 |
Galway |
5 |
|
Mayo |
5 |
Roscommon/Longford |
0 |
72. Deputy Helen McEntee asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the need for additional Garda Síochána resources in communities (details supplied) in County Meath; if she will request a report from the Garda Commissioner on plans to improve policing in the relevant communities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42287/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that Kilcock is in the Kildare Garda Division and forms part of Leixlip Garda District and as of 31 October 2015, the latest dates for which figures are readily available there are 9 gardaí assigned to Kilcock Garda station. This station is open 3p.m. to 6p.m. Friday to Saturday and from 3p.m. to 5p.m. on Sundays subject to manpower availability with a Public Access Call Box (P.A.C.B.) to Leixlip, which is approximately 19Km away.
The number of Gardaí assigned to Ashbourne and Duleek on the 31 October 2015, was at 43 and 4 respectively. Duleek Garda station is opened subject to manpower availability with a Public Access Call Box (P.A.C.B.) to Ashbourne which is opened 24 hours a day. I have also been informed by the Garda Commissioner that Dunore is patrolled by members attached to the neighbouring Drogheda District, which is approximately 6Km away.
I can assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to delivering an effective, responsive police service to protect our communities and respond to emerging crime trends. An essential component of our strategy to achieve this is on-going, seamless recruitment of trainee Gardaí. To this end the first intake since 2009 of new recruits commenced training at the Garda College, Templemore, in September of last year. To date there have been six intakes of Garda Trainees to the Garda College, giving a total intake of 550. So far 295 of the new Garda Trainees have attested as members of An Garda Síochána. On attestation, new probationer Gardaí are assigned to stations throughout the country by the Garda Commissioner, where they are assigned to mainstream uniform policing duties. I am assured by Garda management that the needs of all Garda Divisions are fully considered when determining the allocation of newly attested Gardaí and that 15 and 5 of these newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Kildare and Meath Garda Divisions respectively.
The Deputy will be aware that I announced the opening of a recruitment campaign for new members of An Garda Síochána last Friday 27 November. This new campaign is necessary to fulfil the Government’s commitment to recruit 600 Gardaí in 2016. The 600 new Gardaí to be recruited next year will bring to 1,150 the total number of new recruits since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014. The Public Appointments Service (PAS) is organising the recruitment competition on behalf of the Garda Commissioner and applications may be made through the PAS website at www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016.
In relation to emerging crime trends, Operation Thor, which was launched by the Garda Commissioner recently is a multi-stranded national operation which builds on previous and current Garda operations to tackle crime, particularly burglaries the number of which, as we know, increase with the advent of the long winter nights, in both urban and rural communities nationwide. Operation Thor is made possible by the increased investment in policing by this Government, including an allocation of €5 million to specifically support this new Operation.
It entails a broad range of activities to tackle burglars, organised crime gangs and prolific offenders as well as working with communities to prevent crime. These activities include: additional high-visibility patrols in identified burglary hot-spots; increased use of checkpoints to tackle the criminal gangs using the national road network; the use of new high powered vehicles by the armed Regional Response Units; efforts to disrupt the stolen goods market; programmes to help reduce re-offending by prolific offenders; a high-profile national crime prevention awareness campaign, and targeted crime prevention advice for local communities and enhanced supports for victims.
I am confident that this comprehensive operation by An Garda Síochána, supported by Government investment in Garda resources and personnel, will disrupt the activities of burglars, organised crime gangs and prolific offenders and will improve the safety of all our communities across the country.
73. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the measures she will take to prevent assaults on vulnerable older persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42398/15]
View answerThe general law relating to non-fatal offences, which includes assaults, is contained in the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. There are a number of different offences related to assault, the more serious of which carry heavy penalties.The legislation provides maximum penalties, and in considering sentencing in a given case a judge may consider any relevant aggravating factors, including the age and vulnerability of the victim, which might warrant the imposition of a relatively higher sentence to a similar case where such factors did not arise. There is also statutory provision to allow the DPP to appeal a sentence on grounds of undue leniency.
While specific crime prevention measures are a matter for the Garda authorities, I am of course concerned that we do all that we can to support and protect elderly and other vulnerable people in our communities.
The Deputy will be aware that the Government is making very significant investments in policing. The resumption of Garda recruitment has provided for the training of 1,150 new Gardai by the end of 2016, increasing the number of Gardaí available for frontline duties. In addition, the expansion and upgrading of the Garda fleet and modernising Garda technology and systems will support more flexible and responsive patrolling, increasing the visible police presence and providing reassurance for our communities, including elderly and more vulnerable persons.
Unfortunately we have seen several incidents where elderly people were assaulted in the course of burglaries and the Deputy will be aware that we now have a strategy in place under Operation Thor to significantly step-up our response to this form of criminality. Operation Thor is a multi-strand national anti-crime and anti-burglary operation which has been in the planning for several months. It was launched both as a follow-on to recent announcements regarding investment in policing and to coincide with the advent of longer winter nights.
The strategy being pursued under Operation Thor will entail a broad range of activities to tackle burglars, including additional high-visibility patrols and increased use of checkpoints to tackle the criminal gangs using the national road network, as well as a high-profile national crime prevention awareness campaign, and targeted crime prevention advice for local communities as well as enhanced supports for victims.
Insofar as the particular needs and concerns of the elderly are concerned, An Garda Síochána’s Older People Strategy promotes actions to support and respond to the needs and expectations of older people on an ongoing basis. This strategy is pursued through various community policing initiatives and crime prevention programmes carried out in partnership with local communities such as Neighbourhood Watch and Community Alert.
The Garda authorities strongly support the ongoing development of these partnership initiatives, and I as Minister greatly value this work. In fact, I have secured a doubling of the funding for these types of initiatives to be funded by my Department in 2016. My Department is currently considering how this funding might be best allocated, in consultation with the Garda authorities.
74. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Síochána stations and the number of gardaí in each station in County Westmeath, County Longford, County Roscommon and County Monaghan on 1 November 2010 and on 1 November 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42422/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that list of stations and the number of Gardaí assigned to those stations in the Westmeath, Longford/Roscommon and the Cavan/Monaghan Divisions on the 31 October 2010 and on the 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables.
This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective, visible policing throughout the country. A crucial element of the Government's strategy is ongoing seamless recruitment to renew An Garda Síochána. With this in mind Budget 2016 made provision for the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year bringing to 1,150 the number of new Gardaí that will be recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore in September 2014. So far 295 of those new recruits are fully attested and are on the ground in communities nationwide.
I was very pleased to announce the commencement of the recruitment campaign for 2016 last Friday, 27 November. It is being organised by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Garda Commissioner. Applications must be made through www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. Successful candidates can expect to enter the Garda College from June 2016 onwards.
Westmeath, Roscommon/Longford and Cavan/Monaghan Divisions 31 October 2010
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
ATHLONE |
66 |
||
|
BALLINAHOWN |
1 |
||
|
BALLYMORE |
2 |
||
|
GLASSON |
2 |
||
|
KILBEGGAN |
4 |
||
|
MOATE |
17 |
||
|
ATHLONE |
Total |
92 |
|
|
BALLYNACARGY |
2 |
||
|
CASTLEPOLLARD |
3 |
||
|
CASTLETOWN GEOGHEGAN |
1 |
||
|
DELVIN |
14 |
||
|
FINEA |
1 |
||
|
KILLUCAN |
5 |
||
|
KINNEGAD |
6 |
||
|
MULLINGAR |
132 |
||
|
MULTYFARNHAM |
1 |
||
|
RATHOWEN |
0 |
||
|
ROCHFORTBRIDGE |
5 |
||
|
MULLINGAR |
Total |
170 |
|
|
WESTMEATH |
Total |
17 Stations |
262 |
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BOYLE |
30 |
||
|
COOTEHALL |
1 |
||
|
ELPHIN |
2 |
||
|
KEADUE |
1 |
||
|
ROOSKY |
3 |
||
|
STROKESTOWN |
4 |
||
|
TARMONBARRY |
2 |
||
|
BOYLE |
Total |
43 |
|
|
BALLAGHADERREEN |
7 |
||
|
BALLINLOUGH |
2 |
||
|
BALLINTUBBER |
1 |
||
|
CASTLEREA |
35 |
||
|
FRENCHPARK |
3 |
||
|
LOUGHGLYNN |
1 |
||
|
TULSK |
2 |
||
|
CASTLEREA |
Total |
51 |
|
|
ARDAGH |
1 |
||
|
BALLINALEE |
2 |
||
|
DRUMLISH |
2 |
||
|
EDGEWORTHSTOWN |
7 |
||
|
GRANARD |
30 |
||
|
SMEAR |
1 |
||
|
GRANARD |
Total |
43 |
|
|
BALLYMAHON |
6 |
||
|
KENAGH |
1 |
||
|
LANESBORO |
6 |
||
|
LONGFORD |
63 |
||
|
NEWTOWNCASHEL |
1 |
||
|
LONGFORD |
Total |
77 |
|
|
ATHLEAGUE |
2 |
||
|
BALLYFORAN |
1 |
||
|
CLONARK |
1 |
||
|
KNOCKCROGHERY |
9 |
||
|
ROSCOMMON |
75 |
||
|
TAUGHMACONNELL |
1 |
||
|
ROSCOMMON |
Total |
89 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD |
Total |
31 Stations |
303 |
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BAILIEBORO |
40 |
||
|
BALLYJAMESDUFF |
4 |
||
|
COOTEHILL |
9 |
||
|
KINGSCOURT |
6 |
||
|
MULLAGH |
1 |
||
|
SHERCOCK |
2 |
||
|
TULLYVIN |
0 |
||
|
VIRGINIA |
5 |
||
|
BAILIEBORO |
Total |
67 |
|
|
BALLYCONNELL |
29 |
||
|
BAWNBOY |
1 |
||
|
BELTURBET |
4 |
||
|
BLACKLION |
4 |
||
|
DOWRA |
2 |
||
|
KILLESHANDRA |
2 |
||
|
SWANLINBAR |
2 |
||
|
BALLYCONNELL |
Total |
44 |
|
|
BALLYBAY |
5 |
||
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
51 |
||
|
CASTLEBLANEY |
24 |
||
|
CORRINSHIGAGH |
2 |
||
|
ROCKCORRY |
1 |
||
|
SHANTONAGH |
2 |
||
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
Total |
85 |
|
|
ARVA |
3 |
||
|
BALLINAGH |
3 |
||
|
CAVAN |
69 |
||
|
KILNALECK |
4 |
||
|
REDHILLS |
1 |
||
|
STRADONE |
1 |
||
|
CAVAN |
Total |
81 |
|
|
CLONES |
9 |
||
|
CLONTIBRET |
1 |
||
|
EMYVALE |
4 |
||
|
MONAGHAN |
101 |
||
|
NEWBLISS |
1 |
||
|
SCOTSTOWN |
4 |
||
|
SMITHBORO |
0 |
||
|
MONAGHAN |
Total |
120 |
|
|
CAVAN / MONAGHAN |
Total |
34 Stations |
397 |
Garda Divisions of Cavan/Monaghan, Roscommon/Longford and Westmeath on 31 October 2015
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BAILIEBORO |
39 |
||
|
BALLYJAMESDUFF |
3 |
||
|
COOTEHILL |
6 |
||
|
KINGSCOURT |
3 |
||
|
MULLAGH |
1 |
||
|
SHERCOCK |
1 |
||
|
BAILIEBORO |
VIRGINIA |
11 |
|
|
BAILIEBORO Total |
64 |
||
|
BALLYBAY |
3 |
||
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
42 |
||
|
CASTLEBLANEY |
27 |
||
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
ROCKCORRY |
2 |
|
|
CARRICKMACROSS Total |
74 |
||
|
ARVA |
3 |
||
|
BALLINAGH |
1 |
||
|
BALLYCONNELL |
17 |
||
|
BELTURBET |
6 |
||
|
BLACKLION |
3 |
||
|
CAVAN |
60 |
||
|
DOWRA |
1 |
||
|
KILLESHANDRA |
1 |
||
|
KILNALECK |
3 |
||
|
CAVAN |
SWANLINBAR |
1 |
|
|
CAVAN Total |
96 |
||
|
CLONES |
5 |
||
|
EMYVALE |
3 |
||
|
MONAGHAN |
78 |
||
|
MONAGHAN |
SCOTSTOWN |
2 |
|
|
CAVAN / MONAGHAN |
MONAGHAN Total |
88 |
|
|
CAVAN / MONAGHAN Total |
25 Stations |
322 |
|
|
BALLAGHADERREEN |
8 |
||
|
BALLINLOUGH |
2 |
||
|
BOYLE |
26 |
||
|
CASTLEREA |
35 |
||
|
ELPHIN |
1 |
||
|
FRENCHPARK |
3 |
||
|
KEADUE |
1 |
||
|
ROOSKY |
4 |
||
|
STROKESTOWN |
6 |
||
|
CASTLEREA |
TULSK |
1 |
|
|
CASTLEREA Total |
87 |
||
|
DRUMLISH |
2 |
||
|
EDGEWORTHSTOWN |
10 |
||
|
GRANARD |
27 |
||
|
GRANARD |
SMEAR |
1 |
|
|
GRANARD Total |
40 |
||
|
BALLYMAHON |
8 |
||
|
KENAGH |
1 |
||
|
LANESBORO |
8 |
||
|
LONGFORD |
LONGFORD |
65 |
|
|
LONGFORD Total |
82 |
||
|
ATHLEAGUE |
1 |
||
|
CLONARK |
5 |
||
|
ROSCOMMON |
75 |
||
|
ROSCOMMON |
TAUGHMACONNELL |
1 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD |
ROSCOMMON Total |
82 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD Total |
22 Stations |
291 |
|
|
ATHLONE |
60 |
||
|
BALLYMORE |
1 |
||
|
GLASSON |
2 |
||
|
KILBEGGAN |
4 |
||
|
ATHLONE |
MOATE |
15 |
|
|
ATHLONE Total |
82 |
||
|
BALLYNACARGY |
2 |
||
|
CASTLEPOLLARD |
4 |
||
|
DELVIN |
10 |
||
|
KILLUCAN |
4 |
||
|
KINNEGAD |
5 |
||
|
MULLINGAR |
133 |
||
|
MULTYFARNHAM |
1 |
||
|
MULLINGAR |
ROCHFORTBRIDGE |
4 |
|
|
WESTMEATH |
MULLINGAR Total |
163 |
|
|
Total |
13 Stations |
245 |
75. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a person (details supplied) will receive communication from the review panel of barristers regarding a case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42437/15]
View answerThe particular case to which the Deputy refers is amongst those considered under the mechanism established for the independent review of certain allegations of Garda misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of certain allegations, which have been made to me as Minister for Justice and Equality, or the Taoiseach, or other public representatives with a view to determining to what extent and in what manner further action may be required in each case. A panel consisting of two senior and five junior counsel was established for that purpose.
The Panel has provided recommendations to me in all 320 cases submitted to them and has therefore largely concluded its work. I am mindful that all complainants are anxious to know the outcome of the review of their case and every effort is being made to conclude the process. In each case a submission will be prepared. Mr Justice Roderick Murphy will review the summary of the conclusion and the letter of notification drafted to ensure that they are a fair and accurate reflection of the recommendation.
The issuing of notification letters to complainants commenced on 29 June. To date, 298 complainants have been notified of the outcome of the review of their cases. Letters will continue to issue to all complainants, including the case referred to by the Deputy, until the process is completed. I have previously assured Deputies that where further investigation is recommended by the review then that will occur.
76. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she is satisfied that the issues highlighted in the Garda Síochána Inspectorate report, particularly relating to the misrepresentation of crime figures, have been addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42366/15]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Inspectorate Report on Crime Investigation forms an important component in the overall justice reform programme which is currently underway and in respect of which significant progress has already been made. Implementation of this programme, including the reforms recommended by the Inspectorate, is being overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Justice Reform, chaired by An Taoiseach.
Following the publication of the Report, An Garda Síochána established an Implementation Steering Group to focus on the implementation of the short, medium and long-term recommendations in the Report. To assist in the overall reform process a Strategic Transformation Office has been established at Garda Headquarters to coordinate the implementation of the reforms arising from the Inspectorate’s report.
An Garda Síochána has taken a number of important steps to address the issues identified including the establishment of a new Data Quality Team within the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC), and the piloting of a new incident recording process to test data review processes. Arising from and building on this work, the Commissioner indicated that further measures will be rolled out to enhance accountability, governance and oversight of investigations.
In light of the concerns raised by the Inspectorate about the recording of crime data, and the implications for the Official CSO Recorded Crime Statistics, the CSO conducted an in depth review of the crime figures and published its analysis of these matters on 30 June this year. The work of both the CSO and the Garda Inspectorate identified common issues of concern in relation to Garda crime recording processes and systems. Many of these issues have no doubt built up over time and it is true to say that similar issues have also been found with police data in other jurisdictions. CSO's analysis clarified and quantified the issues which were identified by the Inspectorate in relation to crime recording. Notwithstanding these issues, the CSO concluded that the data are of sufficient quality to allow publication of crime statistics, on the basis that care should be taken in their interpretation in light of the report’s analysis. The CSO is working with An Garda Síochána to address these issues and will repeat their analysis at regular intervals to monitor data quality.
I might also draw the Deputy’s attention to other work being led by the CSO which is chairing an Expert Panel to examine the Garda Inspectorate’s recommendations on crime statistics, including with a view to the development of new crime counting rules.
I am pleased that there is a programme of work in place to address the issues identified by the Inspectorate so that we can be satisfied that we have accurate, reliable data on crime. This work will be well supported by the very substantial additional provision of €205 million for new technology and information systems for An Garda Síochána which is provided in the Government Capital Plan 2016 - 21. This level of investment underlines my commitment to progress the important reforms of An Garda Síochána identified by the Garda Inspectorate.
77. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the additional resources that will be made available to An Garda Síochána in County Louth under Operation Thor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42425/15]
View answerOperation Thor is a multi-stranded national operation which builds on previous and current Garda operations to tackle crime, particularly burglaries the number of which, as we know, increase with the advent of the long winter nights, in both urban and rural communities nationwide. In excess of €5 million is being committed to support Operation Thor. This allocation, which includes funding for Garda overtime will support a combination of additional patrols, checkpoints, rapid armed response and public awareness measures.
This special, targeted operation has to be seen in the context of the major investment that this Government is making in An Garda Síochána. The 2016 Budget allocation of €1.5 billion for An Garda Síochána includes over €67 million in additional funding which will allow the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year on top of the 550 Gardaí recruited since this Government reopened the Garda College in September 2014. It will also provide additional funding for Garda Surveillance, special operations and targeted, intelligence-led policing. This additional recruitment and budget allocation builds on the current high level of investment in Garda vehicles. We have invested over €34 million in new Garda vehicles since 2012 with over 640 new vehicles coming on stream in 2015, ranging from more Garda patrol cars to high-powered vehicles for armed units. The Government's Capital Plan 2016-2021 provides for a further €46 million of investment in vehicles as well as an additional €200 million for Information and Communications Technology which will allow An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting edge technologies in the fight against crime. We are also investing in airborne surveillance. Taken together, this step-change in investment in policing will ensure that the Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive, on the roads and in the community.
Operation Thor entails a broad range of activities to tackle burglars, organised crime gangs and prolific offenders as well as working with communities to prevent crime. These activities include: additional high-visibility patrols in identified burglary hot-spots; increased use of checkpoints to tackle the criminal gangs using the national road network; the use of new high powered vehicles by the armed Regional Response Units; efforts to disrupt the stolen goods market; programmes to help reduce re-offending by prolific offenders; a high-profile national crime prevention awareness campaign, and targeted crime prevention advice for local communities and enhanced supports for victims.
The Commissioner, in consultation with her senior management team, is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including the additional allocation of the €5 million to support Operation Thor. The Commissioner has assured me that she will aim to maximise the use of these additional resources. A large proportion of domestic burglaries are committed by serial offenders. Figures from the Garda Síochána Analysis Service indicate that 75% of burglaries are committed by 25% of burglars. Targeting these prolific offenders is a priority, consequently the allocation of resources under Operation Thor will be intelligence led and based on analysis of crime patterns by An Garda Síochána. The aim is to deploy resources in advance of where An Garda Síochána anticipate crime might take place in order to prevent the crime occurring.
In this context the Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible to detail the additional resources that will be made available to any one County under Operation Thor. However the Commissioner will continually review the allocation of resources under the Operation, taking into account crime trends and policing priorities across the Garda Regions so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources. I am confident that this comprehensive operation by An Garda Síochána, supported by Government investment, will help disrupt the activities of burglars, organised crime gangs and prolific offenders and will improve the safety of all our communities across the country.
78. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she believes that the present arrangements for investigations into Garda Síochána whistleblowing allegations are sufficiently robust, given the current ongoing cases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42388/15]
View answerIt is assumed that the cases referred to are the same cases that were raised in Parliamentary Questions on 20 October and 26 May, 2015. I would again make the point that all of us in this House must be very careful in discussing individual cases of whistleblowing. Protection for whistleblowers rightly prioritises the confidentiality of the process, which is central to the efficacy of the process.
Prior to the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 coming into operation, whistleblowing by members of the Garda Síochána was provided for under the Garda Síochána (Confidential Reporting of Corruption or Malpractice) Regulations 2007, which provided for the appointment of an independent Confidential Recipient to whom Garda members, and civilian support staff, could report, in full confidence, instances where they believed there may have been corruption or malpractice within the Garda Síochána.
This system was replaced by the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, which came into operation on 15 July 2014 as part of this Government's comprehensive approach to enhance the protection available to whistle blowers, including Garda whistleblowers. GSOC was prescribed under the Act as a body to receive protected disclosures on Garda matters. Under the Act, members of the Garda Síochána may now communicate their concerns to the Garda Commissioner, as their employer, or to GSOC as a prescribed body, and are entitled to the protections provided by the Act.
I am satisfied that the legislative provisions now in place under the 2014 Act, including the protections afforded for whistleblowers, will prove to be an effective remedy for Garda members who wish to report their concerns regarding potential wrongdoing.
As I have previously advised House in relation to these particular cases, I have no function in relation to criminal investigations and the submission of files to the DPP, or in relation to the investigation of complaints by GSOC.
79. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Síochána stations and the number of gardaí in each station in County Clare on 1 November 2010 and on 1 November 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42404/15]
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 taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that list of stations and the number of Gardaí assigned to those stations in the Clare Division on the 31 October 2010 and on the 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables overleaf.
This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective, visible policing throughout the country. A crucial element of the Government's strategy is ongoing seamless recruitment to renew An Garda Síochána. With this in mind Budget 2016 made provision for the recruitment of 600 new Gardaí next year bringing to 1,150 the number of new Gardaí that will be recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore in September 2014. So far 295 of those new recruits are fully attested and are on the ground in communities nationwide.
I was very pleased to announce the commencement of the recruitment campaign for 2016 last Friday, 27 November. It is being organised by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Garda Commissioner. Applications must be made through www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. Successful candidates can expect to enter the Garda College from June 2016 onwards.
Clare Garda Division October 2010
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
CRUSHEEN |
2 |
||
|
ENNIS |
129 |
||
|
IMMIGRATION OFFICE |
6 |
||
|
LISSYCASEY |
1 |
||
|
NEWMARKET ON FERGUS |
4 |
||
|
QUIN |
2 |
||
|
SHANNON |
62 |
||
|
SIXMILEBRIDGE |
4 |
||
|
ENNIS |
Total |
210 |
|
|
BALLYVAUGHAN |
1 |
||
|
COROFIN |
2 |
||
|
ENNISTYMON |
24 |
||
|
INAGH |
1 |
||
|
LAHINCH |
3 |
||
|
LISDOONVARNA |
2 |
||
|
MILTOWN MALBAY |
3 |
||
|
ENNISTYMON |
Total |
36 |
|
|
BROADFORD |
1 |
||
|
KILLALOE |
35 |
||
|
MOUNTSHANNON |
1 |
||
|
SCARIFF |
5 |
||
|
TULLA |
2 |
||
|
KILLALOE |
Total |
44 |
|
|
CARRIGAHOLT |
1 |
||
|
DOONBEG |
1 |
||
|
KILDYSART |
3 |
||
|
KILKEE |
3 |
||
|
KILMIHIL |
1 |
||
|
KILRUSH |
31 |
||
|
LABASHEEDA |
1 |
||
|
KILRUSH |
Total |
41 |
|
|
CLARE |
Total |
27 Stations |
331 |
Clare Garda Divison 31 October 2015
|
Division |
District |
Station |
Total |
|
CRUSHEEN |
1 |
||
|
ENNIS |
118 |
||
|
IMMIGRATION OFFICE |
6 |
||
|
KILLALOE |
31 |
||
|
LISSYCASEY |
1 |
||
|
NEWMARKET ON FERGUS |
3 |
||
|
SCARIFF |
4 |
||
|
SHANNON |
52 |
||
|
SIXMILEBRIDGE |
4 |
||
|
ENNIS |
TULLA |
2 |
|
|
Total |
222 |
||
|
BALLYVAUGHAN |
1 |
||
|
COROFIN |
2 |
||
|
ENNISTYMON |
25 |
||
|
KILDYSART |
2 |
||
|
KILKEE |
2 |
||
|
KILRUSH |
37 |
||
|
KILRUSH |
LISDOONVARNA |
1 |
|
|
CLARE |
Total |
70 |
|
|
Total 17 Stations |
292 |
80. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Justice and Equality her views on the establishment of a Traveller agency to address issues of equality; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42431/15]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that there is a consultation process underway led by my Department to develop a new National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy. Phase 1 (identification of key themes for the new Strategy) has been completed, and Phase 2 (identification and agreement of high-level objectives under each agreed theme) will commence shortly. The final Phase, Phase 3 (identification of detailed actions to achieve each agreed objective, with associated timescales, Key Performance Indicators, institutional responsibilities and monitoring arrangements), will commence in early 2016 and conclude also in early 2016 with the presentation of a new Strategy for Government approval.
This process will give us a new Traveller Inclusion Strategy and a set of very real actions that need to be taken to bring about a real improvement in quality of life for Travellers. The question of whether revised institutional arrangements for delivery of services to Travellers are necessary to bring about greater coherence in and improve the effectiveness of statutory services for the Traveller community has been raised during the ongoing consultation process and, as indicated on behalf of the Government during the recent debate in the House on the question of recognition of Travellers as an ethnic group, will be considered in the drafting of the new Inclusion Strategy.
81. Deputy Anthony Lawlor asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Síochána reserves; the number in County Kildare; their role in the community; if they should be more proactive in community policing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42295/15]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel, including, reserve members among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that as of 31 October 2015, the latest date for which figures are readily available, there are 988 reserve members in total, of which 32 are assigned to the Kildare Garda Division.
The Garda Reserve was established in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to enhance the links between An Garda Síochána and local communities and consists of voluntary unpaid members, drawn from the community, to support the work of An Garda Síochána. Reserve members make a real and tangible contribution to the policing of communities right across the country and I am fully supportive of the continued development of the Reserve. In particular, I welcome the recent conferring by the Commissioner of additional powers on reserve members under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 and also her decision that reserve members should carry out additional duties including the serving of summonses, and the issuing of Fixed Charged Penalty Notices where offences are detected.
I am pleased that the recruitment campaign for 2016 for full-time members of An Garda Síochána, which I announced last Friday, 27 November includes a special stream for eligible members of the Garda Reserve. Reserve members have undergone training in many of the skills required to be an effective full-time member of An Garda Síochána and have gained experience in operational policing and it is right that satisfactory service by a reserve member be given due recognition.
The Public Appointments Service (PAS) is organising the recruitment competition on behalf of the Garda Commissions and applications may be made through the PAS website at www.publicjobs.ie. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 January 2016. I would encourage all reserves who satisfy the eligibility criteria to apply.
82. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans for the Garda Síochána to introduce a public order unit for Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42400/15]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the deployment of Garda personnel and for the management and organisation of Garda operational units. I am assured that Garda management in the Dublin Metropolitan Region keep this deployment under continuing review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, including with respect to concerns about public order and anti-social behaviour, so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of policing resources. The very significant additional Garda resources which the Government is now making available will undoubtedly support enhanced policing and public safety in all areas, including Dublin City.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that a Public Order Unit is in place in the Dublin Metropolitan Region since 2004, and is deployed as required. The Unit is highly skilled and trained to deal with public order incidents of all gravity up to and including riot. In addition, the Deputy will be aware that An Garda Síochána have developed a clear strategy to address public order concerns within the framework of the Dublin City Centre Policing Plan which has been operational since June 2013. Garda actions under the Plan include dedicated high visibility patrols in key commercial and public thoroughfares. These patrols are informed by crime trends, demand studies and footfall in the areas in question, and include dedicated patrols on weekend nights to deal with public order issues in the city centre.
The Garda approach includes focusing resources on specific areas of the city according to need. As part of this, a number of targeted city centre policing operations are in place. These operations include Operation Spire, which provides for a high visibility policing presence specifically on O’Connell Street at critical times to address anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and related crime. The operation is designed as a preventative measure and the area is patrolled by uniform patrols supplemented as required by Crime Prevention Unit and Divisional Crime Task Force personnel. The City Centre policing plan is also supported by other operations including Operation Pier which focuses on the Pearse Street District, as well as Operation Viking and Operation Clean Streets which further target the sale and supply of illicit drugs in the city centre.
Addressing the factors which contribute to public order issues also requires communication and cooperation with a range of relevant stakeholders and An Garda Síochána engages extensively with business and community interests with respect to crime prevention, enforcement and policing concerns.
