Maire Devine (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister stated that the distribution of gardaí was "exclusively the statutory responsibility for the Garda Commissioner". As an elected Deputy and someone who has been appointed to the position of Minister for Justice and Equality, though, surely he should take a more hands-on approach to the root-and-branch reform of the Garda, especially given the scandals. He needs to have a more direct role. We have seen the skewed and inappropriate behaviour at some levels within the Garda Síochána. Perhaps the Minister should have more of a guiding input into how the reform is undertaken. It is doubtful that the scandals of last year can be put to bed at this stage, but I call on the Minister to be more proactive with the Garda after the necessary root-and-branch reform. In the meantime, we need to invest in the Garda in Dublin South-Central, which has increased in terms of its population and, unfortunately, crime levels.