THE Taoiseach has said the rural community policing scheme will not be extended in the near future.
Mr Bruton was responding to media reports which suggested that the current review of the Garda Siochana would recommend the scheme's extension.
Mr Bruton said such reports were mischievous" and the scheme could only be changed when a consultation process, involving "local Garda management, representative associations and local interests", was complete.
"This process by its nature will take some time to complete and the Minister for Justice will not act on any proposals from the Garda Commissioner until then."
The scheme, in operation since 1991, has been the subject of some controversy, with some organisations claiming it has meant the closure of rural Garda stations.
Mr Bruton said the scheme was not designed to close any stations, but aimed at "allowing the gardai spend more time on active operational duties in their districts, in particular visiting the elderly".
He was speaking during a visit to Kilmeedy Garda station in Co Limerick.
Mr Bruton said station opening hours should "meet local community needs" and that these objectives were currently being examined to see how "well they have been delivered in the existing rural policing areas".
Mr Bruton said the Government would study any report produced closely and "act with speed on its recommendations". He said the steering group carrying out the review would help to "build a modern, efficient police force that protects and defends our citizens in a cost effective and comprehensive way".
He said this would mean "the Garda Siochana's customers - the citizens of Ireland - will have a charter setting out the continued high level of service they can expect".