Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The recurrent issue of an inadequate Garda presence in our rural region is one we cannot overlook any longer. The programme for Government explicitly mentions the priority given to visible policing in both urban and rural communities, recognising its centrality to our social contract with citizens and its vital role in maintaining the safety and security of our communities. We saw a significant restructuring in the Mayo division when it was merged with Longford and Roscommon. This move was expected to bolster the numbers of Garda personnel across the region, leading to improved workflow management, standardised procedures and efficiencies. Despite these promises, the reality on the ground in rural counties like Mayo is concerning. Our local streets and some towns often lack that visible Garda presence.

Indeed, the divisional headquarters in Castlebar is now without a resident superintendent and senior ranking officer both to oversee the modernisation of the policing model and to deal with serious crime. In many Mayo communities, the local Garda stations are often open for only two hours a day.

The implications of such limited resources in rural areas are severe. I ask that the Government provide more adequate resources to build safer, stronger communities in our rural areas and to enhance the Garda presence in these areas.

See this speech in context