The programme for Government contains a commitment on rural crime. Crime levels in Kerry have increased at a significant rate in recent weeks. On the weekend of 25 February, for example, there were six home invasions in the Muckross, Lough Guitane and Glenflesk areas by thieves who made their way out onto the N22, the Killarney-Cork road. Thousands of euro and jewellery were stolen. The thieves even went as far as robbing all-Ireland medals. There was another incident in Ardfert during which an elderly man was tied up for several hours while a gang of thugs raided his house. A substantial sum of money was taken. Where does the Government stand with regard to rural crime? What is it going to do to protect ordinary, decent citizens who are being terrorised in their homes in this way? The Government should stand up now. There is enough nonsense going on about senior gardaí and what they have been doing. I want the authorities to stand with the people in rural Ireland, including rural Kerry, and protect them and our farmers and their machinery and goods.

And the medals.

A very specific initiative has been taken by the Garda and resourced by the Government. This initiative is designed to confront burglary in rural and urban areas and includes targeting mobile gangs. It has been very effective. There has been a very significant reduction in crime levels in the targeted areas. This is an area which the Garda has targeted and in respect of which it is showing results.

I would not rely on those figures either.