Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 14 Mar 1995

Vol. 450 No. 6

Written Answers. - Garda Strength in Border Areas.

Dermot Ahern

Ceist:

50 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice her policy regarding the level of gardaí in Border areas; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Garda stations such as Louth Village, Blackrock Village and Castlebellingham, County Louth, are under strength in spite of rapidly growing populations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3163/95]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

The deployment of Garda manpower and resources throughout the State is a matter for the Garda authorities.

I have previously said in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 18 in this House on 8 February, 1995 that I would be anxious to see gardaí reassigned from Border duties at the earliest possible opportunity. I would expect worthwhile redeployment of Garda manpower and resources to take place during the current year assuming that the security situation remains positive.

The present Garda strength at Louth, Blackrock and Castlebellingham stations is 2, 3 and 3 respectively. Backup is available when required from within their respective Districts of Dundalk and Drogheda. I am informed by the Garda authorities that they review the deployment of manpower to those sub-Districts on an on-going basis and they are satisfied that the present deployment of manpower is adequate to meet the policing needs of the area. However, the position will be kept under review and any redeployment considered necessary will be undertaken.