Garda proposals would see stations replaced with 'clinics'

Proposals to change Ireland's policing model would see gardaí hold 'clinics' in areas hit by station closures, it was reported today.

According to newspaper reports, gardaí would meet local residents at set times during the week in areas without stations.

Up to 80 Garda stations are expected to close before the end of the year.

They proposed clinics would see officers meet with people in local centres like parish halls for around two hours twice a week.

Minor issues such as passport applications will be dealt with and the local Garda who was transferred from the closed Garda station will remain a point of contact for local residents.

The move is part of a new policing model, discussed by senior officers at a two-day conference earlier this week.

Some 170 new patrol vehicles will also be sent out on the streets in the new year and officers will also be expected to make greater use of social media and local radio.