Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the manner in which the Garda Síochána is adapting to deal with emerging issues. I understand the matter was adverted to at the committee. The Deputy should note the significant reform programme. It is well under way in line with the Government five-year reform programme. The key driver of the reform is the Commissioner's five-year renewal programme from 2016-21. That takes on board the recommendations of the report of the Garda Inspectorate, Changing Policing in Ireland. The report included an extensive review of the culture within An Garda Síochána and identified significant scope for change. I wish to assure the House that the Government is committed to ensuring that an adequate level of resources is available. We have unprecedented Garda resources in this year's budget amounting to a sum of €1.6 billion. The implementation of the reform plan will continue to be overseen by the Policing Authority. It is clear that the progress reports submitted to date highlight the critical importance of this role. I wish to assure the House that every effort will be made by Government to ensure adequate resourcing of An Garda Síochána.

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