Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We must ensure the gardaí we have are organised better. Like many public servants, gardaí are prepared to do more for less. That is what their employer is asking them to do, in line with the Croke Park process, until we have recovered economically, to the point at which Garda recruitment can recommence. As a result of these measures, gardaí will be freed up for front-line operational duties. New modern patrol cars will be rolled out this month to ensure there is a maximum Garda presence in rural areas. Individual gardaí will attach themselves to local areas that may be a few miles from the stations where they are based. I understand that Operation Doras has been rolled out in north Leitrim as a pilot project. It involves individual Garda personnel visiting elderly people who live in rural areas to give them advice on their personal security and literature on combating crime that may affect them.

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