Bernard Allen
Ceist:897 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will consider constructing a new Garda station at Riverstown, County Cork. [19756/00]
Written Answers. - Garda Stations.
I can inform the Deputy that the intention is to refurbish the existing station and official accommodation at Riverstown. It is difficult to say when this might begin, as it depends on the progress of other Garda building projects which have been given a higher priority, and on the availability of finance. That said, work on Riverstown station could start next year.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:898 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will arrange to have Glanmire Garda station open on a 24 hour per day basis in view of the fact that Glanmire has a population in excess of 1,400 and projected growth patterns will see the figure rise to more than 20,000 within the next two years (details supplied). [19757/00]
I am informed by the Garda authorities which are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda personnel to individual areas that the current personnel strength, all ranks, of Glanmire Garda station is 16. The station is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays. When not open, the call diversion system is in operation and linked to the district headquarters at Cobh Garda station. The area is also patrolled constantly with resources augmented from within the district as required.
I am also informed by the Garda authorities that the extension of the current opening hours to 24 hours would necessitate the assignment of Garda personnel to indoors administrative duties. Such personnel can be utilised more effectively in providing a visible Garda presence on outdoor policing duties.