175 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to introduce greater and more extensive aerial surveillance to assist in the Garda Siochána's fight against crime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3160/96]

It is generally accepted that air support is an effective and important aid to police forces in combating criminal activity. Air support to the Garda Síochána as currently provided by the Air Corps is proving to be very effective in combating crime.

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 4 of 11 May 1995 in which I announced the establishment of an inter-departmental working group to determine how best to provide the force with the most effective air support. The question as to whether the Garda Síochána should have a dedicated air support unit is being addressed by that group and I expect to have their report very shortly. At that stage I will be in a position to consider how best to meet the full range of Garda needs in this area.