Shatter to consider axing 96 more Garda stations

As many as 96 more Garda stations could close over the coming months, heaping further concern on rural areas already hit by 39 closures this year.

Weekend reports suggested the latest austerity-imposed blow is likely to be put forward in an assessment given to Justice Minister Alan Shatter next month.

The document, which focuses on what services are provided in the 664 units still open, is being overseen by senior Department of Justice and Garda personnel, including Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan.

As part of the plans, more than a dozen districts will also be joined together to cover senior Garda retirements, with all counties except Dublin, Wicklow and Kildare set to be affected.

While Mr Shatter has insisted Ireland does not need as many Garda stations as are currently operational, and that the changes will result in a better-organised service, gardaí and communities have questioned the moves.

Between April and June, 39 garda stations were closed down across the country — a move that involved 149 gardaí, 17 sergeants and two inspectors. Half of the stations had no full-time officers attached to them when they were closed.

At the time, Mr Callinan said the changes only took place “after careful analysis and research” on their impact on crime.

Mr Shatter further justified the measure by pointing to a 13% drop in crime rates since 2008, and the fact that 80% of Garda stations report just one offence per day.

However, the move has led to increased concern over a potential growth in crime in rural areas, which could be left isolated as a result of the changes.

In high-profile instances, the Offaly homes of golfer Shane Lowry and Fianna Fáil environment spokesman Barry Cowen were targeted by burglars last week.

Garda Representative Association general secretary PJ Stone said officers have a duty to raise concerns over the potential impact of the closure policy.

“We have a responsibility to warn the community of the consequences of losing the local knowledge retained in the local Garda station,” he said. “The minister for justice has argued that improved communications, technology and transport have made the need for 703 Garda stations redundant. He is mistaken.”