Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to be in the Seanad to listen to the Senators' views. I acknowledge the importance of the motion. I very much value the contributions of the Senators who have spoken. Having read the motion, I believe the issue is further strengthened by the countermotion proposed by Senator Conway, which speaks for itself. In the time available to me I do not intend to speak on every aspect of the countermotion, but I acknowledge what Senator Conway has said in that regard.

The countermotion highlights better the scope of An Garda Síochána's response to crime in the State, underpinned by the provision of unprecedented resources to An Garda Síochána by the Government. As Senator Ó Donnghaile said in his contribution, while we might differ today in some of our opinions on these issues, we are all working towards achieving the same goal, which is safer communities for our citizens. I am pleased, therefore, to participate in what is a wholly constructive debate.

Senators will be aware that the programme for Government underlines the need for close engagement between An Garda Síochána and local communities, and this is an essential feature of the strong community policing ethos that has long been central to policing in this jurisdiction.

The recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland, as developed in the Government's four-year implementation plan, includes a primary focus on community policing, with a range of actions set out to increase further the extent of An Garda Síochána's direct involvement with and in the community. This includes the roll-out of the new operating model of An Garda Síochána, which will increase the number and visibility of front-line gardaí and will undoubtedly deliver a more localised service based on community needs. I will discuss this in more detail later in my contribution. I must note, however, that Senator Gallagher, who proposed the motion, has left the Chamber. I am sure that Senator Murnane O'Connor will pass on my comments with regard to Senator Gallagher's submission.

It is also worth noting in our contributions that the perception of crime generally is often very different from actual levels of crime.