James Bannon (Fine Gael)

It undermines people's confidence in our legislative decisions. That is a fact.

I seek a debate on crime. Every day an average of 2,840 crimes are committed in this country. Gun related crime has increased by 50% and theft has increased by 80% since the Government was re-elected. We were promised 2,000 extra gardaí but they have not been appointed. Resources are needed to detect and eliminate crime, but they are not being provided by the Government. The people canvassing in the local and European elections are reminded of this every day. Debates on law and order that last up to half an hour are taking place on the doorsteps. We have plenty of law but little order at present.