Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have said that I believe the most effective response to the issues that have been raised is the series of initiatives I have mentioned: further gardaí, so we have more visibility, specialist operations, investment in vehicles, and a mobile force that is able to respond to the changing trends in crime. People have raised the issue of bail. This is an important area and I am addressing it in one piece of legislation. I have further legislation coming out. I will be making changes in that legislation regarding electronic tagging in order that the prosecution and the Garda can request this. That is an important initiative.

I would put a fact to the House, that the increases in offences committed by people while out on bail peaked in 2009 and 2010 and have been reducing since. It is important to have a sense of perspective on it. I sympathise with every individual who has been the victim of these heinous crimes and I want to interrupt them and ensure the Garda has the resources to deal with it. That is what we are doing and this is the most effective way to deal with these issues.

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