Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the part of statement by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Howlin, that related to the Garda Síochána, specifically the closure of Garda stations. Only two stations in my county of Roscommon will be affected, namely, Cootehall Garda station in Boyle, which featured in the books of John McGahern, and Loughglynn Garda station in Castlerea. Strangely, major refurbishment works are under way at the station in Castlerea which is located in a rural area with a large hinterland. People in the area are deeply concerned about the proposed closures. In addition, Termonbarry Garda station will not be reopened as a single garda operation. Overall, the saving achieved through the closures is small. The Minister for Justice and Equality should review the decision in light of the repercussions of leaving the rural areas concerned without a Garda presence. The closures will give rise to more crime. Senator Sheahan noted the vital importance of having gardaí in rural areas at a time of increasing crime rates in the countryside. Last night, the president of the Garda Representative Association outlined on "The Frontline" programme the importance of the knowledge obtained by gardaí in rural areas. We should consider the effects the proposed closures will have on rural areas. I call for the Leader to arrange a specific debate on Garda resources in rural areas.