Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 461: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is his intention to increase Garda strength given the recent number of attempted robberies and other incidents in the Lifford area so that there is a 24 hour Garda patrol car in operation. [4902/04]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Lifford Garda station as at 13 February 2004 was 16, including all ranks.

There is a twinning arrangement in operation with Castlefin Garda station which facilitates the deployment of a 24 hour mobile patrol. In addition resources are augmented from within the district and-or division as required. The area is also patrolled by the divisional traffic unit and the district detective unit.

Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in Lifford with a view to ensuring an effective Garda service is maintained. The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available, the needs of Lifford Garda station will be fully considered within the context of the overall needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.