Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 302: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of budgetary considerations, he will ensure that the policing needs in both urban and rural areas are adequately provided for with particular regard to the security requirements of the community at large; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40688/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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There has been an unprecedented level of investment in An Garda Síochána over the past number of years to provide the necessary resources in terms of manpower and equipment, to protect communities both rural and urban throughout the State. The gross allocation for the Garda Vote for this year alone is over €1.56 billion and there has been a 41% increase in the number of dedicated Community Gardaí for the 12 month period to the end of September this year.

The Commissioner and I are determined that all resources possible will be directed towards frontline policing across all communities. While no area of Government expenditure can be immune from the adjustments necessary to our public finances, in relation to next year's Estimates for my Department's group of Votes, I am determined that the highest priority will continue to be given to front line policing services.