Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As regards the Commissioner's proposals for 2013, can he indicate what he will present in his draft plan to the Minister for his consideration? Communities would appreciate knowing whether the Commissioner presents options to the Minister. Is it a "Take it or leave it" job, or does the Commissioner present the Minister of the day with a number of options? In other words, does he say that we could close X number of Garda stations in all these locations or, alternatively, we could do something else instead of introducing that measure? It would be helpful to inform the debate we are having on this matter. Operational decisions are entirely within the Commissioner's remit but we are entitled to be consulted. Communities currently feel disconnected from the consultation process.