Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I commend the most recent activity by the Minister. I wish to echo the words of Deputy O'Dowd, but I will try not to be repetitive in the short time I have. What is happening in Drogheda is a microcosm of the situation throughout the country. Although the problem may not get out of hand elsewhere to the degree it has in Drogheda, the Minister should watch this space regarding criminality. This is not about politics. It is about operating together. That is why I asked that the Minister and Commissioner Harris would meet local politicians and the JPC for us to get to grips with much of what is going on in the area. Innocent people are being intimidated in Dundalk, Dunleer and Clogherhead, as was acknowledged by Chief Superintendent Mangan.

I welcome any move to get more boots on the ground, but it is an interim measure. The Minister appointed an additional five gardaí to Dundalk. That has not been flagged, but it is great to see. As well as having a short-term plan, there need to be medium and long-term strategies.

The task force must be put in place 24-7 to target these criminals. As Deputy O'Dowd said, there should be greater resources to engage young people and ensure that they do not find their way into the criminal activity that is taking place in our region.

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