Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I commend all Members for co-operating with the Leader in a fairly significant legislative period in recent weeks and also for the next week or so. This House has conducted itself very professionally and well in looking after legislation and doing the right thing by the citizens of this country.

I also commend An Garda Síochána, the Garda Commissioner and superintendents around the country for their initiatives to help alleviate much of the unfounded concerns of members of the public regarding the closure of rural Garda stations. In order to reassure people, superintendents and chief superintendents have set up clinics in local libraries and town halls for the same number of hours as rural Garda stations were open to demonstrate to those who are concerned that a service can be provided and that it will be monitored.

I further commend the chief superintendents around the country who have initiated and organised public meetings and public awareness sessions to again give people reassurance. An Garda Síochána has gone through a difficult period but the Commissioner and her senior management team are doing extraordinary work to rebuild the confidence and loyalty most citizens in this country have in the force. A survey carried out in recent months showed that 86% of people now have confidence in the force. That has risen from 67% in 2013. Much credit must be given to the first female Garda Commissioner, together with the support she is getting from our great female Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald. Sometimes we can be very critical but when a job is being done properly, professionally and correctly and is getting results, we must acknowledge it.