Vol. 515 No. 2
211 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals, if any, to enable gardaí to carry out their duties in a professional manner at stations (details supplied) in County Mayo; if he will make a statement on the matter in respect of future garda strength in these stations and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5677/00]
The Garda authorities have informed me that a policing initiative was introduced in the Westport district on 1 February 2000. The stations referred to in the question are in this district.
I am also informed that the initiative is designed to improve the policing service by providing improved contact between the Garda and the public and by increasing Garda availability to the public in times of need, such as emergencies. The initiative also provides for station opening hours that best meet the needs of the local community.
I am further informed that the current staffing strength of the stations referred to in the question are one garda; one garda; and one sergeant and four gardaí respectively. There are no plans to reduce these strengths.
