Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2012
474. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he intends to close the Garda stations in areas (details supplied) in County Sligo; the remedial actions he intends to take in order to alleviate policing deficit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42993/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commissioner is currently engaged in an assessment of the potential for improved efficiencies in the structure and organisation of the Garda Síochána as part of the preparation of the draft policing plan for 2013, which under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 is due to be submitted to me by the end of October this year.
While I expect that the policing plan for 2013 will contain proposals for the further rationalisation of Garda stations and Districts, it would be premature, in advance of its submission, to speculate on specific measures which it might contain.
It is important to emphasise that any rationalisation which may be proposed by the Commissioner will take place in an environment of real reform which is designed to introduce new efficiencies into the delivery of the policing service. For example, new Garda rosters commenced at the end of April 2012 on a national pilot basis. The new rosters are designed to better match the availability of Gardaí with policing demands at national and local level, while also safeguarding the welfare of members.
This and other reforming measures seek to maximise the efficiency of the Garda Síochána so that, even with reduced strength, an effective policing service will continue to be delivered across the country.
