Noel Coonan (Fine Gael)

The Garda Representative Association is not the only body which has concerns about the legislation to set up a reserve force. The association is not concerned about the legislation but rather the manner in which the reserve force is being put forward. It has legitimate concerns. I do not know the reason we are running scared because these people are speaking of their concerns.

It is not so long ago since gardaí had to resort to the blue flu to get points of view across. Even then their demands were not granted. They still have to use defective patrol cars and live in rat-infested stations throughout the country. Rural stations are being closed down and the gardaí are still operating with their hands behind their back. There is still no proper PULSE computer system, which they have sought. Gardaí now want their force brought to a level where they could deliver an efficient and effective service. The 2,000 extra gardaí promised have not been delivered.