Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In the programme for Government, the Government has given a commitment with regard to ensuring a strong and visible police force in every community. Figures show that the lowest number of Garda recruits have been assigned to rural areas. In Cavan-Monaghan, we have a mere 21 new recruits. With such low numbers, how are the goals outlined in the programme for Government being met? A strong and visible force implies that there are a proportionate number of gardaí to civilians in the area.

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