Sarah O'Reilly (Aontú)

I call on the Minister for Justice to come before Members to answer questions on the crisis in An Garda Síochána with recruitment and retention. I highlight an incident in Carrickmacross as an example of what is happening around the country. I have received many calls and emails from worried constituents relating to an increase in crime, which has been an issue for a long time. This is coupled with a low visual presence of the Garda in the area and fear for safety due to recent frightening incidents in the Cavan-Monaghan-Louth Garda division. People understandably are nervous and are appalled that shocking incidents are now happening in broad daylight. On Sunday, a man wielding a knife on the main street and acting in a threatening manner caused major worry and upset. Thankfully, this individual has been charged with that offence. The fact that he had three bench warrants already issued to him, however, is deeply concerning.

Garda numbers are falling countrywide and the Cavan-Monaghan and Louth Garda division is no different. The level of crime is rising. Burglaries and other serious incidents of crime are increasing. Criminals are taking advantage of closed Garda stations and reduced Garda numbers. Our jails are bursting at the seams. People who have been convicted for crimes are doing little to no time or are being let out after a very short time. Since 2011, at least 140 Garda stations have been closed across the country. This is truly shocking in the face of an ever-increasing population and is leading to further demand on already overstretched resources. Garda morale is at an all-time low. They have no confidence in the Garda Commissioner. For the second year in a row, neither he or the Minister for Justice will attend the GRA conference. How on earth can the public have any confidence in Drew Harris if front-line gardaí have expressed no confidence in him? An Garda Síochána is in total crisis and we need to address this as soon as possible.