New divisions of Waterford, Kilkenny/Carlow and Kildare, will be to replace the current divisions of Waterford/Kilkenny and Carlow/Kildare.
The Commissioner, Fachtna Murphy has announced that the new divisions of Waterford, Kilkenny/Carlow and Kildare, will be established on 29 June 2009. These divisions will replace the current divisions of Waterford/Kilkenny and Carlow/Kildare.
The Policing Plans for 2008 and 2009 outline the Commissioner’s intention to make changes to Garda divisions.
A Programme Board is overseeing the process of finalising and implementing these changes to Garda divisions.
Referring to the restructuring program which aligns the boundaries of Garda divisions with those of local authorities, the Commissioner said:
“This is an opportunity to shape the future of policing in these areas. We are bringing the Garda divisions into line with local authority boundaries so we can work more effectively with joint policing committees and work in partnership with communities to deliver an efficient, focused and professional service to everyone.”
The Commissioner stressed the importance of ensuring that the community is aware of the changes in the divisions. He referred to various communication initiatives in place in the affected divisions which are designed to keep the public, local business, elected representatives and local authorities aware of the changes to the boundaries in their area. He said:
“This is the fourth phase of an ambitious but essential project which I am committed to implementing. Local consultation and local involvement are essential to its success. An Garda Síochána is focused on the quality and level of service we can provide to the community. Their needs are our priorities and the new structures will enhance our capacity to respond to their concerns and build strong partnerships within local areas.”
• The Garda Síochána Policing Plans 2008 and 2009 outline the Garda Commissioner’s plans to change Regional and Divisional boundaries to realign Garda geographical areas with local authority boundaries.
• The overall initiative is managed by a Programme Board which is chaired by an Assistant Commissioner from Garda Headquarters.
• The changes will not impact on every division but in areas where new divisions are being created the local Chief Superintendent has established local projects boards to lead the change. The boards include local district officers, representative associations and civilian staff.
• The communications activities mentioned include:
- public meetings
- residential leaflet drops
- business leaflet drops
- articles in local newspapers
- interviews on local radio
- nominated support personnel appointed in each station
Garda Press Office,
16:00hrs, 29/6/09
