George Lawlor (Wexford, Labour)

In recent years, the landscape of Ireland has begun to shift, with concerns about terrorist offences increasingly emerging in areas that were once considered safe and isolated. While Ireland has historically been associated with a relatively low level of terrorist activity, particularly since the Troubles ended, given the changing global landscape and the rise of various extremist ideologies, we have had to have a re-evaluation of security measures across the country, even in remote regions. One primary factor contributing to his heightened concern is the increasing connectivity brought about by the Internet and social media. These platforms not only facilitate the spread of extremist propaganda but also enable individuals in rural areas to engage with radical groups, often leading to the recruitment of vulnerable individuals. The anonymity provided by online interactions can embolden those with extremist views making even rural communities susceptible to radicalisation. In that context, I certainly believe the renewal of these emergency provisions is very necessary.

The area of criminal justice is also showing shocking levels of increase. The alarming impact of low Garda numbers right across the country is an issue that is having a profound impact on communities. It is draining the soul from many towns and villages. This is not merely a bland statement; it is a reality that affects our daily lives, our safety and our sense of security. In my own town and county of Wexford, we have seen a persistent creeping of antisocial behaviour on the streets; people intent on causing as much disruption as they can, often in broad daylight. The more brazen the better for many of the perpetrators. It would appear that many of the people who are engaging in public order offences on our main streets made these their playgrounds during Covid and have never left. However, if we look at the most recent Garda probationers who were dispatched around the country in June - 120 of them in all - in the Wexford Wicklow division, four went to Bray, one went to New Ross, zero went to Enniscorthy and zero to Wexford town, the biggest town in the county. A county with a population of 164,000 people got no new Garda probationer. The constituents of Wexford and Wicklow-Wexford, with a population heading for 250,000 people, got one Garda probationer. We have Rosslare Europort in the county of Wexford, one of the most strategic ports in the country, pulling Garda resources from right across County Wexford given its 400% increase in traffic since Brexit. It is the gateway to Europe with people coming and going so it is essential that security is a factor and a key feature there. We have seen when resources were made available that the impact is unmatched. Last August, we had in excess of 600,000 people descend on Wexford town for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. It was a wonderful weekend where the presence of extra gardaí made it such a wonderful family occasion. We need more Garda resources on the ground to combat these issues.

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