Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Calleary has accused the Government of many things but I do not believe it is credible to accuse the Government of not being open to new thinking, better policing and new ways of doing things from a policing perspective. There is a constant programme of reform, reassessment and independent assessment of policing in Ireland - for obvious reasons - over the last years. This continues. The resources continue to increase. The number of gardaí continues to increase, which is needed. This is happening not just in Longford and Drogheda but also in many other parts of the State and in our constituencies, as we know only too well.

The presence of the Minister for Justice and Equality with the Garda Commissioner at times of stress and fear in towns such as Drogheda in response to gangland crime is more than appropriate to reassure people that right at the top of Government we can understand the concerns and the need for a response. The actual response does need to be designed by police officers in An Garda Síochána with the Garda Commissioner's office. If the Garda Commissioner needs more resources or stronger legislation in certain areas he will get both. This is the kind of relationship needed between the Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice and Equality, which is a very strong and important relationship.

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