Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 110: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of dedicated community Gardaí. [13194/07]

Michael 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 have been informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength engaged in dedicated Community Policing on 29 March, 2007 was 521 (all ranks).

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.