Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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497. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will re-open the Garda stations that have been closed since 2011; if she will re-instate Sundrive Road Garda station as a full-time station; and if she will clarify if Ballyfermot Garda station is being considered for closure. [1155/16]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The formulation of proposals in relation to the opening and closing of Garda stations is a matter, in the first instance, for the Garda Commissioner in the context of annual policing plans, as provided for in section 22 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005.

In this regard the Deputy will be aware that the Garda Síochána carried out a comprehensive review of its district and station network in 2012 and 2013. The objective was to identify opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. The review concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation resource base would best meet public demand. The resulting Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme led to the closure of 139 Garda Stations and the amalgamation of 32 Garda districts during the course of 2012 and 2013.

I am advised by the Garda Commissioner that the restructuring of the station network has facilitated the introduction of enhanced patrolling systems that are operational and intelligence led. This patrol system ensures that a high visibility and community oriented policing service continues to be delivered throughout the country, yielding the following benefits:

- Increased Garda visibility and patrol hours;

- Increased mobility and flexibility within an area resulting in an improved policing service to the public;

- Enhanced co-ordination of Garda activity resulting in a greater visibility and presence in the communities;

- More effective use of limited resources across a wider area; and

- Continued Garda presence in communities

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are no proposals to either re-open or close any Garda station, including the ones referred to by the Deputy. Any further organisation development initiatives will similarly be outlined in future Policing Plans.