Written answers

Wednesday, 4 April 2007

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Garda Deployment

11:00 pm

Photo of Willie PenroseWillie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 59: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí currently assigned to community policing; if he will confirm that this represents less than 4% of the overall strength of the force; his plans to increase the number of community gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12921/07]

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Community Policing is a central feature of current policing policy and members of Community policing units are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are assigned. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of public order offences; the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. All Gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as they arise. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the total strength (all ranks) of dedicated Community Gardaí as at 29 March 2007 was 521, i.e. 4% of the overall strength of the Force. The total personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána as at 29 March 2007 was 13,172. This represents a percentage of 3.95% of the total strength of the Force.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

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