Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the cost of operating Garda stations in Doon and Shanagolden in County Limerick during the years 2009, 2010, and 2011; the savings that have been made in the Limerick Division as a result of the closure of these stations in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38454/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Garda Commissioner is the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote. In that context I have been informed by the Garda authorities that financial operating cost statements are maintained at District Headquarters level rather than at Garda station level. In the circumstances the Deputy will appreciate that the specific financial information he has sought is not readily available and I understand that the provision of such information would require a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources which are required for other purposes.

With regard to the closure of the stations in question, I would stress that the key objective involved has been to promote the more efficient and effective deployment of resources rather than to secure cash savings. In this context the Commissioner concluded that Garda resources could be better deployed and more effectively used on the front line if the stations no longer had to be staffed and maintained.