Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1448. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 682 of 21 June 2022, if she has received the necessary information from the Garda authorities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43576/22]
View answerThe Deputy is referring to Parliamentary Question No. 682 of 21 June 2022 where information on 'the Garda divisions currently without a crime prevention officer' was sought.
As the Deputy is aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible by law for the management and administration of Garda business, including the recruitment and training of Garda members and staff.
Additionally, under Section 33 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Commissioner determines the deployment of Gardaí throughout the State, and, as Minister, I have no role in the deployment of Garda members to individual stations/duties.
I am advised that Garda management keeps this distribution under continual review to ensure the optimum use of Garda resources.
I understand that Crime Prevention Officers are trained to encourage, promote and advise on crime prevention in both private and business communities. A list of Crime Prevention Officers is available publicly on the Garda website: www.garda.ie/en/crime-prevention/who-is-my-local-crime-prevention-officer-/
I have been advised by the Garda authorities that, as of 05 September, the following three Garda Divisions currently have no dedicated crime prevention officer:
- Wicklow
- DMR North Central
- DMR West
I understand that these vacancies arise as a result of recent retirements and I am advised that it is expected that a competition to fill the vacancies will commence shortly. The appointment of a Crime Prevention Officer is a matter for the local Divisional Officer and I am informed that the Garda National Crime Prevention Unit assists Divisions when requested.
