Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

As we awoke this morning to the news of yet another gangland murder in our community I put it to the Minister that not enough is being done to resource the Garda Síochána. In saying that, I accept the Garda Síochána alone will not solve the crime crisis. There is a need for a community response. However, this community response must be led by a properly resourced and properly equipped Garda Síochána. Does the Minister accept the need for modern resources is paramount?

The gangland killings of the type to which we are now becoming accustomed on a daily basis will not be resolved or minimised until the Minister addresses the matter of resources as opposed to mere numbers. I draw his attention to the recently published report of former chief inspector, Kathleen O'Toole, in which she states almost half the Garda stations do not have access to a car. The Garda digital radio equipment promised by the Minister's predecessor ad nauseam has still not been delivered. Will the Minister specify when the contract for the pay and go radio network will be signed? It has been tested on numerous occasions.

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