asked the Minister for Justice the present Garda strength in each station and sub-station in Waterford city and county; whether, in view of the rising crime rate, he intends to increase this strength and, if so, in which areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Particulars of Garda strength in each station and sub-station in County Waterford are given in the form of a tabular statement which, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.

As I have indicated in reply to a previous question from the Deputy, the number of gardaí assigned to particular areas is a matter primarily for the Garda authorities and the number is reviewed from time to time to take account of changing needs and circumstances. I am informed by the Commissioner that two additional gardaí were allocated to Waterford city on 28 November and that another additional garda took up duty there on 10 December. The current Garda strength allocated to the stations in the county area is the maximum that can be provided at present having regard to overall resources and other demands on Garda services.

Special additional patrols have been operating in Waterford city and in other urban areas for the past few months with the object of combating street crime and vandalism and they are being deployed in the areas and at the times at which the local Garda officers consider that the need is greatest.

Following is the statement.

Garda Strength.

Strength of each station and sub-station in Waterford City and County.

Does the Minister intend to increase the Garda strength?

The Commissioner tells me that the allocation of additional gardaí in recent times were the only plans he had for an increase.

The Minister says that that is what the Commissioner tells him.

That is right.

What is the Minister's own decision in this?

The Deputy knows well that the Commissioner is the man who decides on the strength of the Garda in each division.