The Minister for Justice must immediately outline her long-term policing plan for Dublin now that the garda overtime budget for the city has been exhausted, according to Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon.
Deputy Gannon, who represents Dublin Central, said:
“The €10 million in garda overtime announced for the capital last summer was always going to be a short-term measure. The additional funding was a kneejerk reaction to the public outrage that followed horrific attacks on tourists in Dublin.
“However, while the deployment of more gardaí on the streets is always welcome, you cannot police a city on overtime. Dublin’s business community, residents and visitors need to know what long-term plan will be put in place by the Minister and Garda Commissioner to ensure people feel safe.
“Dublin’s crime problems have not gone away. Last November’s riots served as another reminder of the serious policing challenges facing the city.
“Instead of constantly being reactive, the Minister needs to outline what new funding will be put in place for the permanent garda presence that Dublin city centre needs and deserves.”
January 18, 2024