Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 November 2016
48. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to extend the opening times of smaller Garda stations in counties Cavan and Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36662/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is primarily responsible for the determination of opening hours of Garda Stations and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.
I have, however, been informed by the Garda authorities that Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed and are determined by a number of factors including population, crime trends and other operational strategies as dictated by the policing needs of each individual division. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to communities.
The Garda authorities are satisfied that the station network continues to provide the necessary levels of policing services through a centralisation of services which in turn has facilitated the introduction of enhanced patrolling systems that are operational and intelligence led. This helps to ensure that a high visibility and community-oriented policing service continues to be delivered throughout Divisions nationwide.
