Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 253: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ensure that more community Gardaí are on the beat in the Fairview and Marino, Dublin 3 area; and if the local neighbourhood watch team will be given the maximum support. [7310/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the number of designated full-time Community Gardaí assigned at 31 December, 2005 and 2006 was 453 and 497 respectively. The 2006 figure represents an increase of 44, or nearly 10%, in the number of Gardaí assigned to community policing duties over the previous year's figure. Of course, all uniformed Gardaí carry out community policing functions. The term Community Garda describes a member of An Garda Síochána working full-time in a specified area and assuming responsibilities and performing duties which relate to that area. It is designed to give local neighbourhoods and communities a more personalised and comprehensive Garda service. By its nature, it is the cities and larger towns which benefit most from the adoption of Community Policing. Areas which have not had regular contact with An Garda Síochána get the opportunity to know and build up a relationship with a member of the force.

A review of Community Policing in Ireland is being carried out and it is anticipated that the review will be completed in 2007. This review will take into account international best practice in this area. When completed, the finished review will inform a National Model of Community Policing, which is a Strategic Goal in An Garda Síochána's Corporate Strategy. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the areas referred to in the Deputy's question are in the Clontarf sub-district and that there are six Gardaí from the Community Policing Unit assigned to these areas where they offer assistance and crime prevention advice on matters reported to them. The community Gardaí involved have a good working relationship with the residents. The residents and local Neighbourhood Watch Committee will continue to receive regular attention and support from the Gardaí at Clontarf. I know that the Garda Commissioner will take full account of the needs of Community Policing in his allocation of the very considerable increase currently under way in the strength of the Force. The attested strength has increased by well over 2,000 since June 1997 — which is more than 20% of an increase. There are now more than 14,000 attested members and recruits in training and this means that Community Policing and other operational areas in the force will continue to grow in strength.