Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I recognise that resources are crucial in order to meet the challenge posed by organised crime. I welcome that the Tánaiste has been apprised by the Garda Commissioner that the unit will have 55 gardaí. It is not a matter for the Tánaiste or me to get involved in operational matters with regard to whether that number is sufficient or insufficient. However, I am slightly worried that the Tánaiste states that the unit is being set up and that gardaí will be trained. There is an urgency to this matter, as I know the Tánaiste will appreciate. In those circumstances, perhaps the Tánaiste will clarify when the unit will be set up, when the training will be complete and when the people of Dublin will know that this special organised crime unit is active and is there to defend them and, more importantly, that the serious criminals involved in gangland crime will know that this House and the State is serious about meeting the threat from organised crime.

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