Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 264: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41401/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In accordance with section 22 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, proposals in relation to the opening and closing of Garda stations are a matter, in the first instance, for the Garda Commissioner in the context of the Annual Policing Plans.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that local Garda management is satisfied that a full and comprehensive policing service is being delivered to the area referred to by the Deputy. At present there is a dedicated Community Policing Unit who patrol on foot and mountain-bike, supplemented by other patrols by uniform and plain-clothes personnel, including the District Detective and Drug Units, the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel. I am further advised that the opening of a new Garda Station in the area referred to by the Deputy would be incompatible with contemporary policing policy in the Division and would result in valuable Garda resources being diverted from outdoor, operational policing to indoor administration duties.