Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Commissioner and his team. My first question concerns the serious gangland issues in Dublin, particularly in my own area of west Dublin in Blanchardstown and beyond, as well as in Coolock . The presence of the armed support unit is significant and welcome in helping local gardaí in the work they are doing. They are doing an excellent job in what is a difficult situation because of this gangland issue. Is the Commissioner satisfied that the size of the present armed support unit is sufficient for future needs? Has he had discussions with the Department of Justice and Equality regarding expanding the unit in the context of the growing levels of violent crime witnessed in Longford, Drogheda and parts of Dublin? There is great demand for the armed support unit. It is needed and intervenes at particular times. Is there a need, however, to plan for its use in a greater and more substantive way in future? What are the Commissioner's thoughts on that matter?