Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I will ask the Minister to respond directly to the Deputy's invitation to go on a walkabout. Crime and drug dealing in the city centre have not been peculiar to the term of this Administration. The centre of our capital city is important not only to those who live there but also to the many who work, shop and enjoy their leisure time there. It is also of importance from a tourism perspective. The Minister shares the general concern that every effort be made to promote a safe and welcoming environment in the city centre. Consequently, she supports the continuing collaboration of the Garda Síochána and other State agencies, working in partnership with business and community interests to make the city centre safe and welcoming for all. The Government will continue to provide the best possible support to the Garda Commissioner to respond effectively to the range of policing challenges in Dublin city and elsewhere throughout the country.

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