Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 6, 40 and 52 together. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of gardaí assigned as dedicated community gardaí in each division, as of the latest date for which figures are available, is as set in the table I am circulating with this answer. The new Garda Síochána national model of community policing was launched earlier this year. One of the objectives of the new model is to re-invigorate and re-structure the community policing function within the Garda Síochána to deliver a consistent national structure to the community policing function, a more co-ordinated and efficient Garda service to the community and the spread of good practices and quality service in community policing on a national basis.

A national community policing office has been established within the Garda community relations section to develop and oversee the implementation programme. The model is being rolled out nationwide in line with an action plan for implementation. Training has already commenced in some districts and it is intended that every district officer throughout the country will take ownership of community policing within his or her area of responsibility. The Garda Síochána national model of community policing report is available on the Garda website www.garda.ie. I attach a list of community police and where they are deployed.

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