Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon-Galway Eugene Murphy has called on the Minister for Justice to ensure that Tarmonbarry Garda Station is included in the review, which will examine the reopening of Garda Stations in certain areas.
Tarmonbarry is one of seven stations in the constituency which were closed since 2012.
Deputy Murphy commented, “Garda resources across Galway-Roscommon were raided under Fine Gael and Labour. The number of officers on the ground has fallen by almost 10% since 2010, from 237 to 215. The losses at Boyle and Ballinasloe are particularly worrying given the size of these towns. Between them they are down 10 Gardai – a situation which has put these stations under massive pressure.
“While these large towns are feeling the strain of these resource reductions, rural communities have also been hit. Fear levels have increased, particularly in areas which have seen their stations close. A strong Garda presence is an extremely important tool in the fight against crime, and these communities have lost a vital resource. Many people are now choosing not to report minor crimes as it involves travelling to another town where there is a Garda Station.
Programme for Government
“Under the terms of the Programme for Government, a new pilot scheme will be launched to reopen 6 Garda stations. I am calling on the Minister for Justice to ensure that Tarmonbarry station is considered for this pilot programme. This station’s location on the main N5 road, right beside the Shannon ensures accessibility and would enable officers to serve the town itself and the surrounding areas.
Eugene Murphy went on to say that “Fianna Fáil fought for improved Garda numbers and resources during its negotiations with Fine Gael and is pleased to have secured a commitment in the Programme for Government to increase Garda numbers to 15,000 and investment in CCTV at key locations along the road network. This will make a real difference to families, towns and villages in Roscommon and Galway and around the country and we will continue to pursue measures to tackle crime and protect our communities”.