asked the Minister for Justice whether he is prepared to consider representations against the proposal to close Leap Garda Station, County Cork.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Garda Station.
53.
As stated in reply to a question on 27th May last about station closures in County Cork, the Commissioner, Garda Síochána, has advised that Leap Garda Station can be closed without loss of police efficiency in the area.
The assessment of police requirements in any area is a matter primarily for professional policemen and their requirements could not be determined in open consultation with local residents. The Commissioner always takes into account the reports of the local Garda as to the views of residents in the area before he asks for my consent to a closing order.
The station is due for closing in the near future and I do not know of any reason, at this late stage, why I should alter the decision made by my predecessor on the advice of the Commissioner.
Can the Minister say whether the Department of Justice are now re-establishing the old adage "Beyond the Leap, beyond the Law" because there is a great deal of territory beyond Leap which will not now be adequately policed?
I am glad to say that Leap is very convenient to Skibbereen, to Rosscarbery and to Drinagh.