Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael)

During a raid on a post office in County Wexford earlier today two people were injured, although their injuries are not life threatening. However, robberies have reached a new stage. Banks and An Post have protocols in place which have resulted in criminals gaining little from their wrongdoing, but we are moving to a new stage where shots are being fired to injure rather than to threaten people. I am concerned that post offices in rural Ireland are easy targets for serious criminals. With the advent of the motorway system, these serious criminals are travelling down in a few hours to do their business and follow their plans to use back roads and escape quickly. Will the Leader invite the Minister for Justice and Equality to the House for a debate on this issue which is crucial to the safety of those manning post offices and small bank branches in the countryside?

I ask the Leader to provide an opportunity for a full debate on security in rural and urban areas.