COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

south dublin county council crest

MEETING OF JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE

Friday, February 01, 2008

QUESTION NO 1.

QUESTION: Councillor M. Corr

  1. What rationale has been used by the Garda authorities to conclude that an additional Garda station is not required in the Tallaght area?
  2. What is the current position with respect to the awarding of Divisional status to Tallaght?
  3. What rationale has been used by the Garda authorities when advising the Dept of Justice on sufficient Garda resources for Tallaght?

REPLY:

Question:

What rationale has been used by the Garda Authorities to conclude that an additional Garda Station is not required in the Tallaght area?

Answer:

The provision of a second Garda Station in West Tallaght was considered in 2005 and it was decided that a second Garda Station was not required. An additional Garda Station would require staffing around the clock. These additional staff are presently more gainfully employed in patrolling the Tallaght area.

Question:

What is the current position with respect of the awarding of Divisional status to Tallaght?

Answer:                                           *UPDATE*

On 14/1/08 the office of public works advised that a sketch scheme would be available in the second half of 2008 and they are currently looking for 30% more space.

Question:

What rationale has been used by the Garda authorities when advising the Department of Justice on sufficient Garda resources for Tallaght?

Answer:

Additional resources have been allocated to Tallaght in recent years and I give hereunder the increase in strength over the past 5 years as follows:

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
130 140 171 165 174

The current Policing Strategies for the area are predicated on the policy of reducing and preventing crime, and anti-social behaviour. Also, the maintenance of an environment where the quality of life of the residents can be assured and consolidated. The allocation of resources to Tallaght is reviewed on an on going basis by Garda Management. Nevertheless, there are competing demands from other Garda Divisions for additional resources which are finite. However, I am confident that additional personnel will be allocated to Tallaght as recruitment to the force continues to increase.