Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The answer to that question is "Yes". I admire the courage of those in communities who are not afraid to stand up to those whom they know are involved in criminal activities of any description, but particularly gangland warfare where it involves drugs, abuse and the tragedy of young lives being lost. The Garda confidential line is there for anybody in any community to make an absolutely confidential call about what is happening.

Gardaí, as Deputy McGrath will be aware, are the only defence between the criminal and the citizen. The Deputy can take it from me, in respect of his remarks about the late Deputy Gregory, who was one of the first to stand out with courage and bravery against this kind of carry-on, that the Government, as is its wont, will stand with communities in their defence against those who perpetrate dependance on drugs, abuse of drugs and abuse of life for money, greed and power.

I thank Deputy McGrath for raising an issue that is of such concern and importance in communities all over the country. In fact, since I was honoured with this job, it is astounding the level of underworld activity that is out there. This requires constant vigilance and courage, not only from gardaí.

I admire communities which stand up and say "We have had enough of this, we will not have any more of it", and use the facilities of the State and the opportunities for the courts to put those behind bars who should be behind bars.

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