asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware of the need for a Garda sub-station in the lower part of Ballyfermot, Dublin; and if he will arrange to have it provided.

The Garda Authirities do not consider that there is a need for a Garda station in the area referred to, as adequate policing can be provided from the existing Ballyfermot station which is approximately 1½ miles away. I am informed that the area is benefiting from improved policing as a result of the increased number of Garda patrols which have been operating since last July in major centres of population with the aim of reducing the incidence of crime and vandalism.

Is the Minister aware of the representations being made by the community association in that area—this was requested by Deputy Mitchell—for more intensive police cover in the area and, if possible, for either a Garda station or a sub-station?

We had representations about the provision of a Garda station in this area and the matter was examined. The Garda authorities state that a Garda sub-station in this area is not necessary as the existing Garda station in Ballyfermot is sufficient for the needs of the area. This is the Garda viewpoint on it. They are satisfied that the coverage they are giving in the Ballyfermot area right now would not be improved in any way—in fact it might be disimproved—by having to man a sub-station a short distance away.

Could the Minister indicate the population involved in this area and the level of policing?

I can give the Deputy the population for the entire Ballyfermot sub-district. In 1971 the census was 27,352 and in 1979 it was 26,279. The Garda say that the lower part of Ballyfermot is a long-established area with a relatively mature population. I am satisfied that what they are doing is adequate.