Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I can reel off the names of private sector companies providing significant security services for the public and private sectors in shopping centres, hospitals, banks and every form of institution. We have nothing to worry about if those companies tender to provide security services for the Houses of the Oireachtas, the National Library, the National Museum or elsewhere. It is not an issue. I assure Members that the Minister and Department officials are convinced that this section will have the desired effect of freeing up 500 gardaí.

There has been much discussion in recent years in regard to 2,000 extra gardaí. The Opposition was vocal about the fact that the 2,000 gardaí——