asked the Minister for Justice if he will reconsider the closure of Garda stations in South Tipperary, particularly in rural areas and smaller towns, in view of the rising crime rate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - South Tipperary Garda Stations.
48.
The policing of the South Tipperary area will be examined as part of the general review of the distribution of the Force which is at present being carried out by the Commissioner, with the assistance of the Garda Research and Planning Unit. I am not in a position, at this stage, to say how the recommendations of the unit are likely to affect stations in South Tipperary.
49.
asked the Minister for Justice if he will review the opening hours of Cashel Garda station, County Tipperary, in view of the alarming increase in the crime rate in the town; and if he is aware of the anxiety among the residents because of the early closing.
The present opening hours of Cashel Garda station which have been in operation since 1st April, 1970, were arranged to provide for more efficient policing of the area, by making more men available for more important outdoor duties, while still providing an adequate office service. The Commissioner is satisfied that the present arrangements give the best service that can be provided at Cashel having regard to the available manpower.
Could the Minister say if there is an alarming increase in crime in the town about which the questioner is asking?
In the crime year ended 30th September, 1970, the number of indictable crimes in the town was 16 and in the previous crime year the number was 18, but those two figures are somewhat higher than what the figures were in the three previous years.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.