Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
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Question 41: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of An Garda Síochána, the number of juvenile liaison officers and the percentage of the Force this represents in respect of 2007 and each year since 2002; the reason there has been no increase in the number of JLO's despite the increase in the overall strength of the Force; his plans to increase the number of JLOs in view of the proven success of their work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12930/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy is aware the allocation and deployment of members of An Garda Síochána is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. In that context, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána as at 30 March 2007 was 13,173. I also understand that the Commissioner is making arrangements for the recruitment of an additional 28 Juvenile Liaison Officers over the period 2007-2010 inclusive.

The information sought by the Deputy is given below.

In addition to this the National Juvenile Office has a staff of 1 Superintendent (Director of the Diversion Programme) 1 Inspector, 3 Sergeants and 1 Garda.

The Garda Commissioner has informed me that personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and that the best possible service is provided to the public.