Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if there are any plans for an increase in Garda foot patrols in an area (details supplied) in County Meath due to the lack of a Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48525/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy should be aware that the Commissioner is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout the organisation and I have no direct function in the matter. This allocation of resources is constantly monitored in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place on a District, Divisional and Regional level to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.

However, the Commissioner informs me that in relation to Meath Garda Division, there are approximately 295 Gardaí assigned to the Division of which 46 are assigned to the Ashbourne Garda Station which patrols the Ratoath area. The Division is also supported by 33 Garda Reserves and 26 civilians. These resources are augmented, when appropriate, by Gardaí from national units such as the Garda National Drug Unit and the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation.