Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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17. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he is satisfied that there is an adequate Garda presence in the Cahersiveen area at all times; if he will provide details of the levels of coverage for this district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25311/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Government is committed to building stronger, safer communities and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda Síochána is central to this policy. Since 2015, the Government has increased the budget of An Garda Síochána by approximately €672m, or 46%. This has allowed for sustained and ongoing recruitment and investment in new equipment and new vehicles.

As the Deputy is aware, as Minister I have no role in operational policing matters and am unable to seek to influence or direct the Commissioner with regards to the deployment of Garda personnel.

I am however assured that the Commissioner and his management team keep the distribution of resources under constant review, in light of local policing needs, crime trends and population trends.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that Caherciveen is a full time, 24/7 station operating in order to serve and protect the local communities in South Kerry. As of end of April 2023, 15 Garda members were assigned to the station in Caherciveen, consisting of 13 Gardaí and 2 Sergeants. The station is also supplemented by 1 full time Garda stationed in Portmagee and 1 full time Garda stationed in Waterville.

Caherciveen has four working units ensuring that it is operational 24/7. Members are available to carry out operational policing duties and are supported by Patrol Inspectors who cover the Kerry Division on a 24/7 basis.

The Deputy will be aware that An Garda Síochána don’t police on a station basis, but rather on a Divisional basis and see stations as locations within communities for people to attend, and for resources to be accommodated. Policing for an area will be delivered using all resources in a District/ Community Engagement area and supported by Divisional resources and units.

As of the end of April 2023 there were 340 Garda members assigned to Kerry Division, which represents an increase of over 13% since the end of December 2015.

In addition, there are 52 Garda Staff members assigned. This is an increase of over 50% compared to December 2015. This increase supports the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative to operational policing duties, where their training and policing expertise can be used to best effect.

Coupled with the continued roll-out of the new Operating Model, which has now fully commenced in the Kerry Division, I am confident that the Commissioner will have the resources and plans in place to continue to deliver on An Garda Síochána's mission of Keeping People Safe in Caherciveen.