Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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121. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider lifting the embargo on new Garda recruits in view of the fact that individuals and families are now living in fear in rural, isolated areas and the fact that a large number of Gardaí retired in the recent past, the recent closure of rural Garda stations and the proposed closure of additional Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28443/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am in discussion with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, regarding recruitment to An Garda Síochána and I intend to bring proposals to Cabinet in the near future.

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.

The Garda Commissioner has stated that following the closure of a number of Garda stations and the amalgamation of 30 Garda districts, the revised structures will continue to support the Garda community philosophy through the clustering of services at policing hubs. This centralisation of services will facilitate the introduction of enhanced patrolling arrangements which, in turn, will provide increased Garda visibility as well as maintaining existing Garda links with communities throughout the country. The objective will be to ensure that the best possible policing service will continue to be provided to our communities. The Garda Commissioner has also advised that closure of stations will result in some additional 61,000 patrolling hours being available for operational policing.

I am confident that the Garda Síochána will continue to provide a professional policing service right across the country in a manner that is effective and is consistent with the highest standards for which the Force is renowned.