Barry Ward (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. At the outset, I really appreciate the fact that he has made clear the Government's view that everybody should feel safe in their workplace and that is at the heart of this. I also recognise what was said about An Garda Síochána and the work being done by the Minister, Deputy Harris, by the Minister, Deputy McEntee. and the future work that will be done to build up the numbers in An Garda Síochána so that we have that visible policing that reassures people as well as providing easy access to law enforcement when the time comes. I welcome the campaign that will be launched this week to ensure we have the numbers of people going into Templemore to take on that job, which is one that is worth doing. It is a hugely rewarding position.

I also recognise what Tara Buckley said last night about the frustration of retailers with the Courts Service and the administration of criminal justice in terms of dealing with offenders in this space. I say that as somebody who is working within that sphere as well. As a criminal barrister, I see these cases going through the system. There are delays in that process and one of the things we need to do is to make sure that the Courts Service is equipped to speed up the delivery of justice. That is going to mean more judges, courtrooms, court and support staff to make sure those hearings can take place and the people responsible can be brought to justice.