Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy makes a very valid point. The whole logic behind establishing the LCSPs was to ensure we broadened it out so that it was not just a member of An Garda Síochána who was having to answer questions related to the HSE or other statutory agencies. As any member of a local authority will know, when it comes to responding to issues that arise in our community, it is very seldom the case there is just one statutory entity of which we can say it has responsibility and it will deal with it. In the area of criminal justice, we know from the many examples we have all received that it can be the Garda in the first instance, but there may also be an issue in respect of housing, the HSE or Tusla. The whole purpose behind the new statutory scheme for local community safety partnerships is so it is broadened out to include them.

I recognise the importance of elected representatives and we must ensure they remain central to the new partnerships. However, there is broader and different experience that will be included.

When the regulations are signed by me, which will be done very shortly, I think the Deputy will be pleased with them. If he is not, I have no doubt I will hear from him.

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