Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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18. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of dedicated community gardaí in the service of An Garda Síochána for each of the past seven years; the number of dedicated community gardaí in the Cork city Garda district for each of the past seven years; and the commitment of his Department to the national model of community policing. [44244/17]

Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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24. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality when the new community policing teams will be in place in each Garda district as outlined in An Garda Síochána's modernisation and renewal programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44073/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 24 together.

Community policing is at the heart of An Garda Síochána. It provides a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the Garda National Model of Community Policing plays a key part in responding to crime by taking into account and responding to local conditions and needs. Clear objectives are set, such as high visibility in the community, ease of contact by members of the public, and enhanced support for crime prevention strategies. All Gardaí have a role to play in community policing in carrying out their duties. In addition, the National Community Policing Office, attached to the Garda Community Relations Bureau, captures best practice in community policing initiatives and disseminates these practices through its communication network.

An Garda Síochána's Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021, published in June 2016, places a strong emphasis on developing and supporting the community policing ethos of the organisation and enhancing the current delivery model so that Gardaí spend more time in the community, gaining public confidence and trust and providing a greater sense of security. It will result in the introduction of multi-skilled Community Policing Teams in every District.

These Community Policing Teams will be made-up of Gardaí from a number of different units who will work with the local community to prevent and detect crime. In addition, each Community Policing Team will be supported by a Community Safety Forum. The Forum which will comprise of local Gardaí, members of the public and community groups will promote crime prevention strategies. This clear and consistent approach to community policing will ensure a better service and enhanced community safety.

In terms of progress on this important initiative, I am informed by the Commissioner that a draft Community Policing Framework which outlines the manner in which Community Policing Teams and Community Safety Fora will be established has been completed and is subject to internal review before being approved by the Executive for implementation. The Commissioner anticpates that a number of Community Policing Teams will be established on a pilot basis early next year.

Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities and will enhance the provision of effective Community Policing throughout the country.

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the number of Community Garda over the last seven years is currently being complied and I will forward it directly to the Deputy when it is to hand.