We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

Balbriggan Garda superintendent

Summary

Deputy Boland pressed for the appointment of a permanent superintendent at Balbriggan Garda station, saying the growing, diverse area needed stability. The Tánaiste agreed the post was important and explained the temporary pause caused by recent policing reforms.

I wish the best of luck to Deputy Donohoe. He is the standard to which we all aspire in Fine Gael. I thank him for all of his support.

Skerries, Rush, Lusk, Garristown, Balrothery and Oldtown are all principally served by Balbriggan Garda station. Balbriggan is the youngest large town in the country. It is the most culturally diverse town in the country, yet we have not had a permanent superintendent at the Garda station for well over a year. I hope the Tánaiste will be able to give me some news as to when we will see that appointment. It is vital for the community. North County Dublin is a rapidly growing area, and a permanent superintendent appointment is essential.

Comment on this
Simon Harris The Tánaiste Fine Gael

I could not agree with the Deputy more. I have been with her in Balbriggan. It is a great town but I know how fast growing it is and how important this appointment is. Indeed, she has chatted to me about it in recent days as well. I have made inquiries. I am informed that, as we will recall, the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 changed how the Garda fills its vacancies at senior ranks. It now runs the competitions for the vacancies. This was a major legislative reform and necessitated a temporary pause in promotion competitions for certain ranks, namely superintendent and above, until the Act was commenced and regulations signed. That happened on 2 April. As a result of that, a promotion competition was run for the rank of superintendent. I am assured that that competition has been undertaken and will enable the filling of outstanding vacancies. I expect the vacancy to which the Deputy has referred, a new superintendent for Balbriggan, to be filled imminently or very shortly.

Comment on this