Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I thank the Minister of State for his comprehensive response. Does the Government accept the use of the offshore patrol vessels will be an important part of a strategy to deal with crime and particularly the importation of drugs? Does the Minister of State accept that, in conjunction with these vessels, the use of smaller vessels along our coastline could also be effective in targeting the gangs who import drugs and who are destroying our young people and causing major havoc on the streets of Dublin? He mentioned a cost of approximately €180 million for the offshore vessels. Over how many years will that amount be spent?

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