Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 113: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date in 2009 with regard to the implementation of the new Garda Siochána National Model of Community Policing; the number of gardaí currently committed to community policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40157/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí assigned as dedicated Community Gardaí has increased from 698 at the end of September 2008 to 987 at the end of September 2009. It is important to note, however, that the work of the Garda Síochána is driven by a community policing ethos. The new Garda Síochána National Model of Community Policing was launched earlier this year. This new model is about renewing, re-invigorating and re-structuring the Community Policing function within An Garda Síochána to deliver:

A consistent national structure to the Community Policing function

A more coordinated and efficient Garda service to the community

The spread of good practices and quality service in Community Policing on a national basis.

A National Community Policing Office has been established within Garda Community Relations Section to develop and oversee the implementation programme. The model is being rolled out nationwide in line with an action plan which has been developed for implementation. Training has already commenced in some Districts and it is intended that every District Officer throughout the country will take ownership of community policing within their area of responsibility. The Garda Síochána National Model of Community Policing Report is available on the Garda website www.garda.ie.