asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that there is no Garda station open after 5 p.m. on the main Dublin-Cork road between Cahir, County Tipperary, and Abbeyleix, County Laois; and if he is satisfied with this position.
135.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Stations' Opening Hours.
134.
asked the Minister for Justice if he will make arrangements whereby the Garda station in Cashel, County Tipperary, will remain open until midnight instead of closing at 5 p.m. as at present.
136.
asked the Minister for Justice when the Garda station in Cashel, County Tipperary will be restored to full strength.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 134, 135 and 136 together.
The reduced opening hours at stations on the stretch of road referred to, which include Cashel, have been arranged by the Garda authorities so that the station parties can devote as much time as possible to the more important outdoor duties and also provide an adequate office service for the public. The commissioner is satisfied that the present arrangements are such as to ensure the best possible use of the avialable manpower and I accept his view in the matter.
The reduction in strength in Cashel has been due to unavoidable temporary transfers, but I understand from the commissioner that the strength at the station is to be increased shortly to compensate for this.