Laois has benefited from recent recruitment drives as additional members of an Garda Siochana have been stationed in the county recently.
At today’s meeting of the Joint Policing Committee, Chief Superintendent John Scanlan informed members of the good news.
Seven extra Gardai have been added to the force in Laois-Offaly while another six sergeants have also been appointed.
The sergeants have been stationed in Mountrath, Rathdowney, Portarlington and Portlaoise.
There are now three sergeants in Portarlington, something which Chief Super Scanlan described as ‘historic’.
More inspectors have also been hired and the Chief recalled how when he arrived here ten years ago there were three – and we now have a total of ten.
Mr Scanlan said: “I will never, ever say that I have enough Gardai as you always want more.
“However, the figure now is significantly more than ever before and that is certainly a positive thing.”
The news was roundly welcomed by those in attendance at the meeting.
Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley said: “I really welcome the increase in Gardai, particularly in Mountrath.
“I believe the sergeant will live in the station too which is an added bonus.”
