Mr. Drew Harris:

Despite almost full employment, we have a great deal of interest in our competitions. Over 5,000 people applied to join An Garda Síochána at a recent competition. That is good. I am satisfied with the quality of students I meet in the college. When I visit Garda stations, I meet members who are a credit to themselves and to An Garda Síochána. I am impressed with the quality of staff in the organisation overall. The quality of Garda staff and the level of public support for the force are two really important fundamental building blocks for the organisation as it moves forward. Now we must deliver the reform package to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of An Garda Síochána. We are in a very strong position from the perspectives of Garda personnel and public support.