Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

We wake up daily to hear news reports of the most vicious and depraved assaults on elderly people, particularly in rural areas in every part of the country. What package of measures is available in the programme for Government initiated two years ago to deal with the increase in crime? Experts say that there is a direct link between an economic downturn and an increase in burglaries and other crime.

The Government recently rejected a Fine Gael Bill on home defence on the basis that it was bringing forward its own legislation, particulars of which we have not seen. It has indicated that it will continue to downgrade Garda stations around the country. If the recommendations of the McCarthy report are implemented, most rural Garda stations will close. Many Garda stations are open for only one hour in the morning, a token presence. The Government has discontinued the subvention for an alarm and safety system for older people. What package of measures does the Government plan to address the problem of communities living in fear for their personal safety and that of their property, and their loved ones and family members? How long more must we tolerate a situation in which lawlessness seems to be the order of the day?

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