Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received, from the Garda Commissioner, the report of the working group developing proposals for a comprehensive model of rural and urban community policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21092/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by Garda authorities that the Commissioner established an internal working group to develop a model of community policing for both urban and rural community policing. The report is now at final draft stage and it is anticipated that it will be completed shortly.

Engagement with the community is a key priority of An Garda Síochána. Community policing is constantly being reviewed and developed and the enhanced liaison structures between Garda management and local authorities through Joint Policing Committees and Community Policing Fora will continue to be of significant benefit to the policing of both urban and rural areas.

Important partnerships in which the Gardaí are involved are the Community Alert Programme and Neighbourhood Watch. National strategies for Community Alert and Neighbourhood Watch for the period 2007-2011 were launched in Autumn 2007. The new strategies include a number of significant improvements. Training has been provided to the sergeants and inspectors most closely involved with the Programmes. In addition, the holding of information seminars is continuing for all liaison Gardaí and scheme coordinators for Garda Districts and Divisions.

Crime Prevention Officers are available to offer crime prevention and security advice to residential and business groups and regularly provide such advice through local media outlets, newspaper and radio broadcasts. In addition, residents in rural areas are encouraged to establish and rejuvenate Community Alert Schemes assisted by members of local Community Policing Units.