Paul Bradford (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With the most recent recruitment programme, a significant number of those inquiring about becoming full members of the Garda are currently seeking to serve the Garda Reserve. It is an interesting factor and the behaviour should be encouraged.

Deputy Shatter as Minister for Defence has also faced difficult decisions relating to closures.

Closures of Garda stations and Army barracks are neither easy nor popular, but being popular or taking easy decisions is not the business of Government. The Minister has maintained a solid number of Garda and Army personnel. This is the line from which we must work.

I invite the Opposition to propose constructive ideas. To my colleagues and friends across the way, I say that what we need is a debate, not a crude motion in which the Opposition states that it has no confidence in the Minister and we state that we do. A conversation on policing and the Garda would be helpful, but this type of motion does politics no great justice.

I express my satisfaction with the Minister's ability to secure the best possible funding package at the Cabinet table against the horrific financial backdrop that he has faced in recent years. I express my full confidence in his ability to use that money to the best of his ability. I acknowledge the fact that he is prepared to take tough decisions in a balanced and fair fashion. He does not concern himself with local politics or short-termism. He is taking the right action for this country and its security and safety.