Further concerns have been raised about the changing of the Garda policing model in Donegal.
There are fears that the restructuring of the force will be ‘rushed through’ without recognising the unique challenges faced by Donegal gardaí.
Donegal is one of two outstanding divisions where the new model is due to be rolled out.
Donegal Sinn Féin TDs, Pearse Doherty and Pádraig Mac Lochlainn said that the remote West Donegal region is in dire need of its own Community Policing Area.
There are concerns that the new model will harm links with local communities while garda members in Donegal continue to struggle with a shortage of personnel and equipment.
Deputy Mac Lochlainn said: “Garda members on the ground clearly have no confidence in the planned restructure of the force in Donegal.
“I would also have great concerns about the rollout of any new plan that does not take into consideration the specific challenges that face Donegal from a policing point of view.
“We are a large rural landmass and have a number of ports and islands that present significant difficulties in policing. We also have a Gaeltacht area that requires distinct considerations.
“Furthermore, almost our entire border is shared with a separate jurisdiction and Donegal borders Derry City; the fourth largest city on this island.”
Deputy Doherty added: “As such, we must have the adequate number of Community Policing Areas and that number is three at the very least given the size of the county.
“It is expected that there will be one area covering North Donegal and one covering South Donegal but I strongly recommend that there is a West Donegal area as well.
“The remoteness of the area, the fact that we have well-populated islands and that the majority of the Gaeltacht is in the West of the county should make it a priority that there is a standalone Community Policing Area in West Donegal.
“This has been made even more apparent given the criminality that the area has unfortunately witnessed in recent times.”
