Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister's comments and his continued affirmation of support for An Garda Síochána, in particular Chief Superintendent Christy Mangan and his team and Superintendent Fergus Dwyer who is also very active in this area. The people of east Meath want public awareness of the increased co-operation between the two divisions. Crime knows no boundaries and for criminals who want to target particular people for money, or an enemy, there are no barriers. There are equally no barriers between the two police services but there is an administrative issue, but I acknowledge this is a matter for the An Garda Síochána, not politicians. The people of east Meath need a public initiative or a statement from the Garda Commissioner regarding the co-operation of services in relation to this issue and an assurance that all available resources will be deployed. There is a need for additional resources because of the displacement of crime, particularly into east Meath. The level of Garda activity in Drogheda is high but, unfortunately, this has displaced some criminal activities. Both of the assassinations-murders related to this fued took place outside of the town of Drogheda, although that is not to suggest there were not attempts in this regard within the town as well.

I reiterate that An Garda Síochána is winning this battle but it needs our continued support. Like me, Deputy Breathnach is aware that Chief Superintendent Christy Mangan announced on Monday last that he would be making an application this week for the retention of current resources. He is not seeking additional resources in his area but he wants an assurance, and demands, as we do in support of him, that the current level of resources be retained, and I do not think there is any doubt about that. However, there are resources additional resources in east Meath. I appreciate the Minister listening to what I have to say.

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