asked the Minister for Justice the number of robberies carried out since 5th July, 1977, to date; the number in which arms were used; the number of persons apprehended in connection with these robberies; and the number of cases where charges have been preferred.

A total of 263 robberies or attempted robberies was reported to the Garda in the period 5th July to 30th September, 1977, and in 76 of them firearms were produced. To date 72 persons have been charged in respect of 58 of the robberies in question.

11.

asked the Minister for Justice the total amount of money involved in all robberies carried out since 5th July, 1977; and the total amount recovered.

The total amount of money reported stolen in robberies in the period 5th July to 30th September, 1977 was £230,425.50. A total of £33,630 has been recovered. In two of the robberies the amount stolen has yet to be ascertained.