Would the Minister consider re-establishing the divisional task force in that area, which would be a back-up and support to the Garda doing their normal duties? This car would then have the support of the divisional task force personnel with their equipment.

(Limerick East): This question does not have anything to do with divisional task forces. As I said before, divisional task forces have not been disbanded; they were integrated with the Special Branch in particular divisions. There are approximately the same number of Special Branch people, carrying the same armaments, as previously. This was an operational matter, a decision made by the Commissioner, so that there would be one specialised force in each division rather than two.

Why were the personnel transferred to other areas?

The Deputy is getting very wide of the question. If the Deputy puts down a question on this subject it will be dealt with.

The divisional task forces were set up to deal with armed robberies.

Yes. A general question on the task force is relevant but to go into the detail of the setting up, disbanding and transfer of the task force, is, in the opinion of the Chair, not relevant.

Is the Minister aware that the Commissioner stated publicly that this force was disbanded but the Minister keeps repeating that these members were integrated?

If the Deputy wants that information he should put down a question.