Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 201: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations which were on 24 hour, seven days a week service in counties Cavan and Monaghan in 1997; the number giving that service in May 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18523/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that 11 Garda stations in counties Cavan and Monaghan were open on a 24-hour basis in 1997. The corresponding number of stations open on a 24-hour basis in the above areas, in May 2005, is six. The decision to reduce the opening hours of some of the stations in Cavan and Monaghan was taken by Garda management which continuously monitors and reviews policing arrangements and operational strategy. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

The extension of the current opening hours to 24 hours to Garda stations would necessitate the employment of Garda personnel on indoor administrative duties. As I recently explained to the Select Committee on Justice, Equality and Women's Rights, on the 2004 Estimate debate, for every person behind the counter in the public office on a 24-hour basis, it means the deployment of 5.2 gardaí in three shifts, overtime relief and the like. These are issues which require a good deal of effective management to ensure we get front-line policing rather than token policing by keeping Garda stations open where the police are needed on the streets. Such personnel can be utilised more effectively in providing a visible Garda presence on outdoor policing duties. Garda management will continue to appraise the policing strategy employed nationwide, with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained.