Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

Will the Leader ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, to clarify the position as regards the proposed closure of 700 Garda stations around the country? Great concern has been expressed to me as regards my area in respect of Garda stations in Balla, Tourmakeady, Lahardane and Ballyglass, because they could face closure. It is very important to have a debate on this in the House because there is great fear abroad that the Minister will close small Garda stations around the country. One wonders how this can be reconciled with the Government's promise to appoint an extra 2,000 gardaí, which we have not seen. People have come to anticipate the closure of Garda stations by the Minister.