Tallaght Housebreakings and Garda Strength
Walsh raised rising housebreakings in Tallaght and Springfield and asked whether the station had enough gardaí. Cooney cited 151 incidents in Tallaght in 1975 and 185 in 1976, including four in Springfield in 1976, and said the station’s strength had risen 50 per cent since 1973; Walsh said recent break-ins suggested the figures did not reflect the current situation.
asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the concern of the residents of Tallaght. County Dublin, with particular reference to Springfield, regarding the increase in house-breaking in the area: and if he will make a statement on the matter.
17.
Comment on this
asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí attached to the Tallaght Garda station, County Dublin; and if he is satisfied that the number is sufficient to cater for the area.
Comment on this
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 17 together.
I share the concern of the residents of any part of the country where house-breaking occurs particularly in an area where there is an upward trend. In Tallaght there were 151 house-breakings in 1975 and 185 in 1976. However, in Springfield to which the Deputy specifically refers, there were no house-breakings in 1975 and four in 1976. Furthermore, the Deputy will be glad to know that there has been an increase of 50 per cent in the strength of Tallaght station since 1st April, 1973, the present strength being 27 compared with 18 four years ago.
The Commissioner informs me that the present allocation of gardaí to the centre is the maximum that can be provided at present having regard to the overall demands on available resources. No decision has yet been taken in regard to the allocation of the extra gardaí authorised by the Government but the Deputy may take it that a significant proportion of them will be allocated to the Dublin area.
Comment on this
I am rather surprised to hear there were only four house-breakings in the Springfield area because, during the past two weekends, there were a large number of house-breakings in the area. There was a public outcry from all the residents' associations in the area. I am rather surprised the Minister has not been contacted directly about the matter. There appears to be some lack of information.
Comment on this
The figure I have is for 1976. I suppose it is a matter of gratification that the number was so few in 1976. I am sure the Deputy will share my pleasure at that fact.