Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

131. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she has discussed the issue of rural Garda Síochána station opening hours with the Garda Commissioner or with the Garda Síochána authorities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35189/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Decisions in relation to the allocation of Garda resources, including station opening hours, are a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the context of her operational responsibilities and I as Minister have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keep the allocation of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of resources.

I am advised by the Garda Authorities that an increase in the opening hours of any Garda Station would necessitate the deployment of additional Garda personnel on indoor administrative duties who may be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties. I am also advised that the matter of opening hours of sub-district stations is subject to continual review and alteration by Garda management in the context of policing priorities and resources available.