Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge Deputy Lahart's interest in this issue and, indeed, his expertise as a Dublin Deputy working in the community.

In response to his question about community policing, it plays a significant part in tackling anti-social behaviour. It plays a vital role in deterring all forms of crime. The unprecedented level of resources that this Government has made available to An Garda Síochána will ensure that the Garda Commissioner, in the matter of decision-making, will have that level of resources to deploy in a way that was not the case in the past.

From my perspective, community policing is at the heart of An Garda Síochána. It provides a means of recognising that every community, both urban and rural, has its own concerns and expectations. I welcome the strong emphasis in the modernisation and renewal programme on developing and supporting the ethos of community policing across the State and, indeed, in urban areas such as Deputy Lahart's constituency.

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