Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of public safety in Dublin, specifically the deployment of gardaí in our public spaces, on our streets, in our parks, our canals, and on our public transportation. A concern is being expressed about where the gardaí are. We are into the summer months, the long evenings and the holiday season. Schools and colleges are out. Visitors are travelling and we want to welcome them to the capital. We want them to feel safe. The Minister for Justice declared that Dublin is a safe city to visit, work and live in. I ask the Deputy Leader to arrange a debate with the Minister for Justice on the policing arrangements for Dublin over the summer months. I am literally stopped on the street by people in Drumcondra, Glasnevin, Phibsborough and other parts of my constituency where I live, asking me these questions. I do not believe I am the only Member of the House who is interested in this. I believe there is cross-party interest in public safety in the capital. Before the Seanad rises for the summer, it is important that this House addresses the issues of concern with the Minister for Justice.