Mr. Martin Harte:

There is one concluding point I wish to make. I know it has already been made here today, but I wish to reiterate it. It is on the issue of policing resources. Gardaí have been getting substantial press currently, and over the last year or so. I have been working with them for 15 years and, from my perspective, they do a tremendous job. I wish to reiterate that. They take abuse not only from the media and ourselves, but from people on the streets. That has to be recognised. They do a very good job and we fully support them.

The issue of resources is key. The south inner city has had 161 gardaí since 2009. I appreciate the significant economic constraints over the last number of years, but the additional police, while it will increase the numbers, will not deal with the issue of resources. As part of our submission, we are seeking additional attention to be given to Dublin city. We would say that because we are based in Dublin city, but it is important. Issues such as rostering, which can be dealt with in a non-resource way, could also be examined. From our conversations with the police, we believe that could assist in freeing up resources to deal with other issues. I wish to put that on the record.