I refer to the commitment in the programme for Government to increase Garda numbers. I draw the attention of the Tánaiste to the severe shortage and pressure on Garda numbers in Donegal. A recent reply to a parliamentary question indicated that the number of full-time community gardaí in the county has been reduced from 21 to two, because Donegal only received 13 of the 815 new recruits from Templemore. Does that concern the Tánaiste? It should. I ask that the Tánaiste and Government liaise with the Garda Commissioner to ensure the shortage in Garda resources in the county is addressed.

The good news is that 800 recruits are going through Templemore this year, which gives the Garda Commissioner the opportunity to make decisions regarding the allocation of gardaí within An Garda Síochána and to increase the numbers in whatever areas she deems appropriate. That is an operational decision for the Commissioner. I have no doubt she will bear in mind the points the Deputy has made. The allocation is based on the need in different counties. It is an independent decision that is made by the Commissioner. It is an operational decision.