Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 543: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if in the context of the fact that the population of Kinnegad and its hinterland has increased fivefold since the 1970s, he will take steps to increase the number of Gardaí personnel allocated to Kinnegad Garda Station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19121/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of Kinnegad Garda Station on 2 July, 2007 was 8 (all ranks). Kinnegad Garda Station forms part of the Longford/Westmeath Garda Division. The personnel strength of the Longford/Westmeath Garda Division on 31 December, 1997 and 2 July, 2007 was 232 and 299 (all ranks) respectively. This represents an increase of 67 (or 28.8%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions. These 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.

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