Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014
582. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Stations that have been closed in County Kerry since 2010 and not replaced, the alternative arrangements that have been put in place to combat crime and enforce sufficient security for the residents of these mainly rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1298/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs set out in his policing plans for 2012 and 2013, the Commissioner determined that the Garda stations in the following locations in the Kerry Garda Division should be closed: Ballylongford, Moyvane, An Clochán, Camp, Fenit, Abbeydorney, Beaufort, Lauragh, Kilgarvan, Brosna, Valentia Island and Ballinskelligs.
The closure of these and other Garda Stations around the country has resulted in an additional 61,000 patrolling hours being made available to the communities right across the country. The revised structures continue to support An Garda Síochána's community policing philosophy through the clustering of services at policing hubs. This centralisation of services has facilitated the introduction of an enhanced grid patrolling system that is operational and intelligence led. This patrol system ensures that a high visibility and community oriented policing service continues to be delivered throughout the country, including in the Kerry Garda Division.
