James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 254: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the effects of the closing of Granard courthouse, County Longford, on Garda personnel in Granard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8707/09]

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 255: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the complement of gardaí left in Granard on the day of a court case in Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8708/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 254 and 255 together.

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that as of 31 January 2009, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the personnel strength of Granard Garda District was 37. The District Court area of Granard was amalgamated with the District Court area of Longford with effect from 1 January 2009. Garda personnel from Granard Garda District attend Longford Courthouse as witnesses as and when required.

I am informed by the Commissioner that there is no diminution of policing service to the local community in Granard District when members are attending the District Court as local Garda management has directed that District patrols be augmented by personnel from Divisional Traffic Corps and the Detective and Drug Units.