Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am very keen to see a greater level of emphasis on road traffic policing. I have discussed the issue with the Garda Commissioner and am very pleased to report an increase in funding in the Garda budget for next year which will allow for a greater emphasis on the Garda fleet and new vehicles. Some 200 new Garda vehicles have been purchased this years, several of which I expect are operating in the Galway-Roscommon area. I hope that will continue progressively into next year.

I also recognise the need to change the model of community policing. Garda management is working on developing a new model of community policing to take account of changes within our communities and the need for a more responsive police service.

I am very keen that progress will soon be reported on the civilianisation programme which I mentioned, a review of the current Garda Reserve about which I am very anxious to speak to Garda management and the changing nature of road and community policing.

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