Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In my time as a member of this committee, I have never once mentioned or criticised Garda overtime. I come from County Louth where two gardaí were murdered in recent years. When a garda leaves the house for the day, there is no guarantee that he or she will come back. I have always said that the Garda does a fantastic job and has done over recent years, especially when Templemore college was closed and Garda numbers were decreasing. It is great that the Garda college is open again and all these new recruits are coming out.

I refer to direct provision. The increase from €70 million to €130 million seems like a lot. The Minister mentioned in his report that the Government is considering using State-owned sites. Does he have any in mind? What locations are being talked about? He also says that he is looking for expressions of interest for the provision of accommodation and sites. Does he have any places in mind for this? There are 39 accommodation centres. At present more than 6,000 people live in them. There are also 37 emergency accommodation locations housing approximately 1,500. This has been steadily increasing in recent years, increasing from 5,000 to 7,000. What are the Minister's plans for the future? As he has included this proposal in his statement, I am sure he is looking at some sites.