Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply. I have been contacted by people from previously quiet communities who have never had cause to approach me or any other public representative in their lives. They are now utterly frustrated with the prevalence of drugs and the horror being caused by the ready availability of certain drugs. We have discussed previously in this House the unique policing requirements of the part of Border region comprising Cavan and Monaghan. I am not suggesting that the drugs in Cavan and Monaghan are solely coming from Northern Ireland. Far from it; they are coming from all over this State too. That said, in his discussions with the Garda Commissioner on the allocation of resources for 2019, I appeal to the Minister to ask that particular cognisance be given to the need to provide additional resources to Border divisions. I attended a joint policing committee meeting in Ballyconnell on Monday night last and the issue of drugs, their availability and the problems besetting communities as a result was discussed. Widespread concern was expressed and the chief superintendent and his colleagues outlined the work being done, but they need additional resources. I ask the Minister to ensure that due recognition is given to the unique policing demands in the Border region.

See this speech in context