Donegal North East TD Padraig Mac Lochlainn has clashed with Justice Minister Alan Shatter in the Dail over the possible closure of rural Garda stations.
Deputy Mac Lochlainn and Kerry TD Jackie Healy Rae called on Minister Shatter not to close rural garda stations, a call which MInster Shatter described as “politically naive”.
Minister Shatter drew an angry response when he said it was gratifying to see Sinn Fein supporting gardai, a different situation from the past.
Deputy Mac Lochlainn said he stands on his record in Donegal, and he accused MInister Shatter of instructing the Garda Commissioner to identify stations that can be closed……..
Responding, Minister Shatter said no garda stations are slated for closure, and he hasn’t even seen the commissioner’s recommendations.
He said the reality is that money must be saved, and his priority is to ensure a viable policing service, rather than concentrating on keeping garda stations open for political reasons………
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
