Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 31 January 2013
156. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to review progress after the closure of the 100 Garda Stations due to close as a result of the Policing Plan for 2013. [4991/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the Commissioner is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout the organisation and I have no direct function in the matter. This allocation of resources is constantly monitored in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place on a District, Divisional and Regional level to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.
In relation to the closure of Garda stations in 2013, the Commissioner has concluded that resources could be better deployed and more effectively used on the front-line if particular stations no longer had to be staffed and maintained or if the public opening hours of other stations could be reduced at off-peak times. He has given a commitment that where a station will be closed local Garda management will consult with local communities on the alternative policing arrangements to be put in place in their area.
