Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Our capital city has an undeniable buzz, community spirit and rich history and I am very proud to be a Dub. However, there is no denying that parts of the city centre have become dangerous, derelict and rundown in recent years. This did not happen by accident. This is a whole-of-government failure, but it has become encapsulated by the continual failure on the part of the Minister for Justice. The recent riots and the loss of control of Dublin city centre is part of a broader failure on this Minister's part. The past year has seen a litany of violent attacks which have highlighted how bad the situation has become. The situation has been broadcast around the country and to the world. Indeed, parents warn their children of the dangers of Dublin city in the same way that embassies are now warning their citizens. These are just the stories which lead the news cycle. Countless acts of violence go unreported and unrecorded. Is it any wonder, with 500 fewer gardaí on the streets? What is the point in calling the Garda when you know that the station is understaffed and the Garda will not be able to send someone out? It gives me no pleasure to highlight these issues to the Minister or to point out that Dublin city centre has not felt safe for a long time. I have no faith that things will get better with this Minister or under this Government.

This is not something to be laughed at. I am glad the Minister can knock some sport out of it.

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