Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for being here. The issue of safety on our streets applies to the whole country, not just to one part of it. However, I acknowledge that where there are bigger populations there can be bigger issues. I sympathise with the two gardaí who were attacked recently in this city. I also extend my sympathies to a friend of mine from Longford who was viciously attacked recently. We have heard of other similar incidents up and down the country. We must have respect for An Garda Síochána. I know that some people talk about members of the Garda breaking the law. As far as I am concerned, there are ample laws in place to deal with those situations, and members of the Garda are dealt with when they break they law. We also now need to look out for the welfare of gardaí, who are dealing with so many issues in comparison with their predecessors years ago. They deal with a broad range of issues including immigration and domestic violence. Perhaps not enough was done to address those issues years ago. Gardaí have to deal with a major number of issues, which is causing them quite a lot of distress. The latter gives rise to mental health problems. Gardaí deal with some outrageous situations, which is why I welcome the recruitment of 400 civilian staff. That will free up gardaí more and give them more time. It is impossible for them to do everything and to do office work at the same time.

I want to highlight the sympathetic ear and voice of gardaí in cases where young people who have unfortunately become involved with drug dealers are brought before the courts. From my own area of Roscommon and Galway, I know that gardaí try to be as sympathetic as possible and do everything to stop those people from being trapped in those situations. Drug dealers continuously offend and supply other people. They are villains and they are wrong. They have to be dealt with by the law, irrespective of the situation that exists.