asked the Minister for Justice if his Department have completed an investigation into Garda strength in Galway city, with particular reference to the eastern suburbs; and if any decision has been made in relation to provision of a Garda station on the eastern side of the city.
Written Answers. - Galway Policing Requirements.
128.
Limerick East): I am informed by the Garda authorities that arising from a review of the policing requirements of Galway city, additional gardaí have been allocated there and special measures have been taken to improve the policing arrangements for the eastern side of the city. These measures include increased foot and mobile patrols in the eastern suburbs and an arrangement whereby a garda is deployed full time in the Mervue and Ballybane areas.
There is no proposal at present to provide a separate station on the eastern side of Galway city, principally because of the absorption of resources in the manning of such a station that could be more usefully deployed on outdoor patrolling. However, the possibility of establishing a "clinic"— in which there would be garda attendance to deal with local policing matters during certain hours —in the area, on an experimental basis, similar to those currently operating in the Dublin area, is under active consideration.
Question No. 129 withdrawn.