Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I assure the Deputy that adequate resources are available to the Garda Síochána. What is happening is a targeted operation identifying criminal gangs engaged in burglary, who are using our very good road network to gain access to other parts of the country from Dublin. Deputy Calleary is correct in making reference to the increases in Meath and Kildare, the commuter areas to which I was referring. The Garda Síochána has identified certain individuals engaged in this activity. A recent operation resulted in a substantial number of arrests. I am sure Deputy Calleary understands if I do not go into further detail about the operation or make references to the individuals arrested but, arising from the operation, I expect prosecutions. At the end of the year, the targeted approach adopted by the Garda Síochána in Operation Fiacla will prove to be effective.

The Garda Commissioner is very aware of this problem but it is for him to make operational decisions as to where resources should be directed. I am aware that he believes this targeted operation aimed at identifiable individuals can be very successful and I have the greatest confidence that it will be. However, this does not mean the Garda Síochána is not keeping a watchful eye on local individuals engaged in criminality in the counties referred to by the Deputy.

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