asked the Minister for Justice if he has received a memorandum from the Cork Chamber of Commerce regarding the lack of sufficient Garda in Cork city; and what action he proposes to take to have this position satisfactorily remedied.
49.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork City Garda Strength.
48.
asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí at present stationed in the borough of Cork, giving the figures for those engaged on (a) foot patrol and (b) motor patrol duties.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 49 together.
Garda strength in Cork city at present is 315. It would not be in the public interest to give details of the numbers engaged in particular police duties.
I have received the representations from the Cork Chamber of Commerce to which the Deputy refers and I have informed that body that I am at present having a general review of the distribution of the force carried out by the research and planning unit of the Garda Síochána with a view to ensuring that strength, patrol systems etc, at various centres will be related to the most urgent public need.
Police requirements in Cork will be fully examined as part of this broad general review but at this stage I am not in a position to give any indication of the outcome.