Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In the time available I will not repeat what I said on sentencing. I sympathise with Johnny, Tim and Joe. There are Johnnys, Tims and Joes in every constituency. I am concerned to ensure there will be special initiatives to tackle crime, especially in rural areas. In addition to the extensive policing measures being implemented as part of Operation Thor, An Garda Síochána is also supporting a number of partnership initiatives to tackle categories of crime which particularly affect rural areas and elderly people.

In dealing with the theft of tools from tradespeople and machine equipment in general, I acknowledge the importance of TheftStop which has been designed to deter criminals from taking and selling farm equipment and other machinery by ensuring it is clearly marked with a unique identifier. I am also aware that An Garda Síochána and the Construction Industry Federation recently launched a "Secure It, Keep It!" initiative in County Cork which adjoins the Deputy's county. I send a strong message to communities that they should work closely with An Garda Síochána to ensure every effort is made to fight the unacceptable incidence of crime rightly referred to by the Deputy.

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