Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)

Whether it is motorbikes, scooters or whatever, we need to give the Garda some methods of transport to help in addressing this problem.

Another matter is verification of the source of all metals. A data bank should be built up. Similarly, there must be a comprehensive exercise in finalising ghost housing estates. There is vandalism happening on a regular basis, with the removal of radiators, copper cylinders, etc., from the houses lying idle in them. There is an onus on local authorities to act given the use of development levies and so on.

It is shameful to see children's playgrounds targeted by these criminals. Almost all children's playgrounds are under local authority control and there is a need to fit CCTV cameras to all of them because the stealing of their equipment has reached epidemic proportions.

I commend the GAA and voluntary organisations for the great fund-raising efforts regarding scrap metal. I believe that is legitimately done and I would encourage it. Perhaps we could work hand-in-hand-----

See this speech in context