asked the Minister for Justice what progress has been made towards increasing the number of gardaí in County Donegal.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Donegal Garda Strength.
51.
Examination of police requirements of various centres throughout the country, including County Donegal, is proceeding, but I am not in a position to indicate what progress has been made or what increase, if any, will be made in the strength of the force in any county.
The Minister is no doubt aware officially and personally of the grave situation that arises in County Donegal. Is he not in a position to increase the number of personnel to meet this?
I am sure the Deputy knows that there are demands from many parts of the country for more gardaí. However, I can say in relation to Donegal and the other Border counties that the number of men in those counties is somewhat higher than it would be in a corresponding rural county away from the Border. There are a number of gardaí recruits being sent to County Donegal when they pass out from the training depot in Templemore this week.
Would the Minister inform me if the number has been increased within the last fortnight or three weeks and, if so, by how many?
It is being increased later on this week anyway. There was some temporary increase in the last few weeks but I have not got the number.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.