Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this important matter. I am pleased the Cavan-Monaghan drugs unit was able to recommence. I share his view and that of everyone in government that we want to see Garda numbers increase. We are seeing progress on that. The college is back open and busy.

The fair distribution of new Garda recruits is important. I will share the Deputy's views with the Minister for Justice. I am aware of the particular issue the Deputy raised for counties near the Border and the importance of strong collaboration between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána, particularly to prevent any abuse of the common travel area in respect of immigration. We have seen some good progress on that only in recent days.

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