John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 579: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ascertain from the Garda Commissioner if adequate numbers of Gardaí will be attached to Newcastle West Garda Station in County Limerick; if and when the vacant positions that are available presently will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30543/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Newcastle West is in the Limerick Division and the personnel strength of that Division on the 31 October 2007, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 566. The personnel strength of Newcastle West Garda Station on the same date was 28. Local Garda management is satisfied that policing in the area adequately caters for the needs of the community.

It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel taking everything into account. 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. The situation will be kept under review by the Commissioner and when additional personnel next become available the needs of the Limerick Division and Newcastle West Garda Station will be fully considered by him within the overall context of the needs of Garda Districts/Divisions throughout the country.