Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I again pay tribute to the Garda. The Minister appeared to take exception about Drogheda, but he should know that a significant part of the town is covered by the Ashbourne Garda district and a significant number of the criminals involved in this feud live in east Meath. It is a matter of serious concern for me, and I appreciate that it is a serious concern for the Minister as well. I am concerned about resources and the fact that the area is in two different regions. I received assurances from the chief superintendent in Meath that there is ongoing co-operation. I accept that and realise the Garda is doing its best, but the resources in Drogheda, which are extremely welcome and necessary, must be matched on the Ashbourne side as well. The Minister and the Garda Commissioner should assure themselves that full resources are available and that maximum co-operation is taking place to get the type of results that were achieved today and yesterday in the area. That will give people confidence that this is being addressed. In addition, as other Members said, there are the underlying issues that must be dealt with.

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