Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I commend the Garda on its ongoing efforts to tackle the problem. The issue I raise is specifically related to organised crime. Has the Minister identified a number of measures which might have the effect of decommissioning, for want of a better description, highly organised criminal gangs which seem to have ready access to firearms and be the only groups in society not suffering in the recession?

Further, in identifying issues to address these matters has the Minister considered the punishment that follows prosecutions and whether that is in line with what is required at present given the threat presented by organised criminals?

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