Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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177. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will confirm his commitment to retain the current service at Rochfortbridge Garda Station, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26038/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The Commissioner's Policing Plan for 2013 sets out details for the closure of 100 Garda stations throughout the country. Rochfortbridge Garda Station was not listed for closure. While the Policing plans for 2014 and 2015 have not yet been prepared, I understand, from discussions with the Garda Commissioner, that the current consolidation process will be largely completed by the end of this year and it seems unlikely at this point in time that there will be any further station closures in 2014 and 2015.

The allocation of all resources, including personnel, within the Force rests with the Garda Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team. Resource levels are constantly monitored, in conjunction with crime trends and other demands made on An Garda Síochána. The situation is kept under continuing review to ensure optimum use is made of these resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. In this regard, I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that, as of the 30 April 2013, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the personnel strength of the Westmeath Garda Division was 252, of which there are 4 Gardaí (1 Sergeant and 3 Garda) assigned to Rochfortbridge Garda Station. There are also 25 Garda Reservists and 20 civilian staff attached to the Westmeath Garda Division.