Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2004
437 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when ten additional, not replacement, gardaí will be drafted into Navan Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29262/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Navan Garda station as at 16 November 2004 was 47 — all ranks. I am informed by the Garda authorities that cognisance is taken of retirements, etc., during each allocation of probationer gardaí. In this regard, the needs of Navan will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country during future allocations of probationer gardaí where possible, by way of permanent transfer of members to Navan Garda station.
With regard to Garda resources generally, I am pleased the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with An Agreed Programme for Government commitment in this regard. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force. The commissioner will draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these resources. However, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties. I have promised the additional gardaí will not be given administrative duties. They will be engaged directly in frontline, operational, high visibility policing duties. They will have an impact.
