Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have a number of other issues that are unrelated to what is on the agenda for today's meeting that I would have liked to raise as well. I do not blame members for raising issues, but I would prefer a scenario where time is put aside for members to ask questions on whatever they like. As that is not the case, I have opted not to ask the questions in other areas. Be that as it may, the information we received and the engagement has been extremely useful. I have always contended that we should consider mobile Garda stations in areas such as seaside resorts. For example some 1.5 million people visit the Cliffs of Moher every year and the Garda station in Lahinch was closed. I think there is a very strong case for the Garda station in Lahinch to be opened for a number of months in the year, given the tragedies at the Cliffs of Moher and the numbers who visit the Wild Atlantic Way. We may have that discussion on another day.

I welcome the acting Commissioner and I am delighted he has the opportunity to lead the force. It is a great honour for him personally. I have no doubt he will do an exceptionally good job. I am sure he agrees with me that it is important that everybody acknowledges the great work that is being done by the 14,000 gardaí on the ground. While there are serious challenges, overall things are far better than they are in many other countries. I am sure the acting Commissioner would also agree with me that it is important for all elements in the administration of justice to be on song, that includes the Oireachtas committees, the Policing Authority and the various organs. That also includes the Garda Representative Association, GRA. Would the acting Commissioner agree with me that the comments from the GRA did An Garda Síochána a disservice?