Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Minister for Justice and Equality, I am committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country, including County Kerry, to provide reassurance for the Deputy's constituents in the many cases he raises in the House on a regular basis. I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that on 31 May, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the strength of the Kerry Garda division was 325. There are also 20 Garda reserves and 36 civilians attached to the division. When appropriate, the work of local gardaí is supported by a number of Garda national units. I acknowledge the importance of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the armed support units, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. Every effort will be made to ensure the ongoing protection of the Deputyis constituents in County Kerry and beyond.

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