Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with what the Deputy has said about rural crime and rural gardaí. The Deputy's colleague, Deputy Cahill, had a specific question on the issue before Deputy Mattie McGrath came into the Chamber. I acknowledge the challenge and difficulty with Garda overtime. This year's overtime bill is in excess of €130 million, which is not sustainable in the context of the recruitment programme which will see an extra 800 Garda recruits coming out of Templemore, fully trained and being billeted to stations throughout the country on a regular basis. I understand the Garda Commissioner is engaging in a review of Garda overtime. I welcome that and I would be happy to engage further.

See this speech in context