Mr. Ronan Clogher:

Similar to that, that calculation was based on the population increases. There are certain matrices when we run it through it that say that is the optimal number we should be at with the population increase. It is often missed that the role of An Garda Síochána is a dual role. We are a national policing service but we are also responsible for national security and intelligence. Given the current landscape in that environment, we believe we need to sufficiently resource the national security element within An Garda Síochána. This is crucial. It is a crucial function of the police force in this country.

Last week, we welcomed the Minister for justice's announcement of the establishment of the international co-operation office. This is a recognition of the intensive work that is happening in this area and the resources it requires. We always hear about community policing, which is very important and we will discuss a lot of these issues today, but the national security element of An Garda Síochána should not be forgotten and is crucial as well.