Cecilia Keaveney
Ceist:1373 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a new Garda station (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16139/02]
Written Answers. - Garda Stations.
I have been informed by the Office of Public Works that the legal formalities necessary to secure the alternative accommodation for the Garda station referred to by the Deputy have been completed. Moreover, I can inform the Deputy that that office has been asked to carry out the required alterations to the building to facilitate an early occupation by the gardaí.
Cecilia Keaveney
Ceist:1374 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the role he sees rural Garda stations playing in community policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16153/02]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that rural community policing was introduced to the Thomastown and Claremorris Garda districts in September 1982.
Following an evaluation of the original scheme it was extended to a further 12 Garda districts in September 1991. In February 1998, the Garda districts of Nenagh and Newcastle West were selected by the Garda Commissioner as part of a pilot project to enhance the operational effectiveness of rural community policing. The aim of the project was to facilitate the public with fixed opening times for rural Garda stations.
The Garda Síochána view the rural community policing initiative as being an important part in the provision of their community policing service.
More generally, I might mention that community policing is being considered as part of a major ongoing review of Garda organisational structures under the Strategic Management Initiative programme of modernisation. The outcome of that review will be submitted for consideration by Government when completed.