Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2008
871 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí working in community policing in Clonmel, County Tipperary at present; when the further three Gardaí for that unit will be starting work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27789/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the number of Gardai assigned to Community Policing in the Tipperary Garda Division on 31 May 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 8. The personnel strength of the Tipperary Garda Division on 31 May 2008 was 360.
While this is the number of Gardaí specifically assigned to community policing in the Tipperary Division, it is of course the case that all Gardaí have a role to play in addressing community policing issues as and when the need arises. I agree with the view of the Garda Inspectorate, expressed in its most recent report, that community policing is a fundamental policing philosophy and that there is a strong foundation for it in Ireland. The Deputy will also appreciate that, as with any large organisation, on any given day personnel strengths of individual divisions, districts and stations may fluctuate due, for example, to promotions, retirements and transfers.
It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel throughout the Force taking all relevant factors into account. In that regard, the needs of the Garda Division referred to by the Deputy will be fully considered by the Commissioner within the overall context of the needs of Garda Divisions throughout the country.
