Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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50. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to discuss crime prevention resources for the Mahon area of Cork city. [6483/23]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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54. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to discuss crime prevention resources for the Blackrock area of Cork city. [6484/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 54 together.

The Deputy will appreciate that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including responsibility for the recruitment, training and deployment of Garda members. I am assured that the Commissioner keeps the allocation of these resources under continued review, in line with crime and population trends, to ensure their optimum use. 

I am advised by the Garda authorities that Blackrock, Anglesea Street and Bridewell Garda stations are now incorporated under one Functional Area as part of the Garda Operating Model – Cork City Centre Community Engagement.

I am informed that, as of 31 December 2022, the latest date for which figures are available, there is 1 Sergeant and 16 Gardaí assigned to Blackrock Garda Station, 2 of which are Community Gardaí and 3 of which are Detectives. I understand that the 2 Community Gardaí have been in situ for the past number of years and have built up very strong contacts and levels of respect within the local community.

Additionally, support is available and provided as required from uniformed and/or plain clothed resources from the other Cork City Centre Community Engagement stations and policing of the area is covered on a 24/7 basis by a mobile unit attached to Blackrock. 

I am further informed that Neighbourhood Watch is active in the area and that local Gardaí attend the local community fora, where any issues are discussed in a proactive manner.