Garda Deployment.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004

Tuesday, 23 March 2004

Ceisteanna (467)

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

465 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí specifically assigned to anti-drug measures in the Cabra area of K district, Dublin 7; the number of gardaí in the drug unit covering the entire K district; the areas and the population covered by this unit; the Garda’s views on whether the drug problem is on the increase in this area; if additional Garda resources might be assigned to it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8309/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the K district drug unit covers the Cabra, Finglas and Blanchardstown areas and that the current personnel strength of the K district drug unit is nine, all ranks. I am further informed that the current personnel strength, all ranks, of Cabra Garda station as at 22 March 2004 is 65.

The approximate population of the K district is as follows:

Station	Population
Blanchardstown	80,000
Finglas	20,000
Cabra	20,000

Garda management in the K district state that there is no apparent increase in the drug problem in the area and are satisfied that the current strength of the K district drug unit is adequate to address the drugs issues there.

All gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to deal with drug related matters as they arise. I am assured by the Garda authorities that the situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Cabra Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.