Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)

With the proposed reduction in numbers, this brings into focus the role of the community in tackling drug addiction, drug abuse and drug dealing. The Minister touched on it when he spoke about the role of the joint policing committees and the local policing forums. They certainly have the capacity to contribute to a solution, but I think we need to look at their current role and maybe give them some additional powers, tweaking the way they operate. From my experience at these committees and forums in my own area, there is certainly room for improvement in order to ensure that there is a greater community participation in those structures. Has the Minister any proposals to look at their role and will he give them additional powers?

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