Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It is good news that the Taoiseach has discovered there are problems in some of our communities caused by criminal gangs and I am sure the people who are victimised by these gangs are delighted the Taoiseach has this new knowledge. I asked three questions. When will the measures announced yesterday be put in place? Will there be additional gardaí? Will there be additional funding? The Taoiseach did not answer any of the questions. It is crucial that additional gardaí are on the ground and that An Garda Síochána is resourced properly. However, this is not just a policing matter. There is a need for increased investment in education, job provision, drug treatment and crime prevention. Local communities are up for this challenge. Many have battled for their kids for generations against Government indifference and now the Government has discovered there are disadvantaged communities within earshot of the Dáil. The Government now needs to deliver, go beyond the rhetoric and put real measures in place. Last week I asked that a task force involving local communities be put in place, Government led but with full involvement of local activists and local people to carry out a comprehensive, multi-agency strategic plan for DubIin’s north inner city. When will this be put in place, how will it be resourced and what funding will be provided? I remind the Ceann Comhairle that the Taoiseach has not answered my original three questions.

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