Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

I agree with the Deputy. The Government and all Deputies are concerned about the safety of ordinary individuals and civilians caught up in these robberies. That is our number one priority and in case anyone in the banking fraternity believes otherwise, the safety of individuals is also the absolute priority of the Garda in these types of incidents. The secondary concern is to prevent such crimes from taking place in the first instance and, where they do take place, to apprehend the criminals involved. The priority of ensuring the safety of individuals is the reason early warning is crucial. Successful operations were mounted in cases where early warning was given.

I concur with the Deputy that large amounts of money are getting into criminals' hands and feeding into their continuing crime, whether drugs, illegal firearms or another activity. This is another worry for the Government and the reason, as I stated publicly, we must redouble our efforts in this area, particularly with regard to the way in which banks go about their business. While I do not wish to comment on individual cases because people are before the courts, there is concern that large amounts of money are accessible to perhaps one or two individuals in banking institutions.

I note that one commentator referred today to my statement that, for whatever reason, more cash per head of population circulates in this State than elsewhere. In mainland Europe, many countries have limited cash available and transactions are carried out using plastic. The issue, about which I have had discussions with my Government colleagues, must be addressed.

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