Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Deputy welcomed the closure of 36 PSNI stations in Northern Ireland, a move with which his party was strongly associated. I reject his assertion that the Minister for Justice and Equality is in denial about his Department. Few Ministers for justice have shown the prodigious output of work and involvement of the current Minister. I am sure the matters raised are being discussed by the Minister and Garda Commissioner as we make preparations for the work that lies ahead.

I am not glossing over anything. Our citizens are entitled to the best level of service that can be provided. I am sure the Deputy is well aware that when, God forbid, an accident, tragedy or whatever else takes place people are always full of praise and admiration for the commitment shown by Garda officers, whatever their locality or call of duty. This commitment has been demonstrated by the Garda Síochána over many long years. What we need now is to have the best and most effective service possible and give gardaí the facilities to do their job. Added to that is the commitment gardaí show as citizens doing a very responsible job. The Deputy will be aware that the Garda is the only line of defence between citizens and criminals. The Minister for Justice and Equality speaks regularly with the Garda Commissioner, who has responsibility for the day-to-day running of the force. The Garda Representative Association has a job to do and is never quiet about articulating what it considers to be the ultimate needs of the Garda. These are issues that are always considered by the Minister.

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