Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I confirm that I raised the specific issue of texts this morning in a conversation with the Garda Commissioner. We are considering new initiatives that could allow text messaging to be carried out in a way that is not unduly burdensome on communities.

I have made clear to the Garda Commissioner and in public that An Garda Síochána will continue to have all necessary resources to provide high visibility policing and tackle serious criminality in rural areas. An additional €88.5 million in overtime is to be provided this year to maintain an adequate policing response to the current situation on an ongoing basis in respect of concentrated policing targeting gang-related crime, continued targeting of burglaries and related crime via Operation Thor and continued support for measures against terrorism.

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