Gary Gannon
Question:235. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Justice the number of areas in Dublin that do not have access to a community policing outreach van; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10949/21]
View answerThursday, 25 February 2021
Questions (235)
Written answers
I have requested information from the Garda Commissioner in relation to this matter but unfortunately it was not possible to compile it in the time available.
I will write to the Deputy directly with the information requested, when it is available.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question Number 235 for answer on 25 February 2021 where you requested the number of areas in Dublin without access to a community policing outreach van. You will recall that the information could not be obtained in the time available and I undertook to consult with An Garda Síochána and contact you again when the information was available.
In accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. In addition, the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. This includes responsibility for the allocation of Garda vehicles among the various Garda divisions. I have no role in these matters but I am assured that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is one Community Support Vehicle attached to the DMR North Central Division. This van is unique to the Division and was provided as part of the North East Inner City Initiative (NEIC) to enhance policing services in the area. This van is especially equipped with PULSE and the facility to take statements and is available to all stations in the DMR North Central Division.
I am advised that all other Divisions within the Dublin Metropolitan Region have a Community bus which is utilised for community groups and services within their respective Divisions.
You may be interested to know that significant capital investment is being made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million specifically for the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.
I trust this information is of assistance.