Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Question 506: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there are proposals for a full time Garda station in Dunboyne, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18562/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of Dunboyne Garda Station on 2 July, 2007 was 15 (all ranks). Dunboyne Garda Station forms part of the Ashbourne Garda District. The personnel strength of Ashbourne Garda District on 31 December, 1997 and on 2 July, 2007 was 56 and 80 (all ranks) respectively. This represents an increase of 24 (or 42.8%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

Dunboyne Garda Station is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily, subject to manpower availability. The Public Access Call Box and call diversion system are in operation and linked to the District Headquarters at Ashbourne Garda Station. The extension of the opening hours at Dunboyne Garda Station would necessitate the employment of additional personnel on indoor administrative duties who, in the view of the Garda Commissioner, may be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties.

The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Dunboyne Garda Station will be fully considered by the Garda Commissioner within the overall context of the needs of Garda Stations throughout the country.