Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
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34. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has reviewed Garda resources in view of the spate of violent crimes committed in January 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5297/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the detailed distribution of resources and the allocation of personnel among the Garda Regions, Divisions and Districts, the various Garda national units and of course Garda Headquarters. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.

I am aware that Gardaí are investigating the violent crimes referred to by the Deputy with all the necessary resources and charges have already been brought in relation to a number of the deaths. In these circumstances I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on any of these particular incidents.

Addressing organised criminality remains a key ongoing priority for both the Government and for An Garda Síochána and these priorities are clearly reflected in the Garda Policing Plan for 2014 and in the Programme for Government.

An Garda Síochána continue to target serious criminals and organised criminal groups on a number of fronts, including through the use of focused intelligence led operations by specialist units such as the Serious and Organised Crime Unit, the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and the Criminal Assets Bureau. These units are also supported, as required, by the Security and Intelligence Section which assists with the provision of intelligence briefings and timely information.