This week, the Cork Business Association wrote to us all about the lack of a Garda presence and Garda resources in Cork city centre. At a recent joint policing committee meeting, Chief Superintendent Myers presented figures that showed thefts alone had increased by 78% and antisocial behaviour and drug dealing are more visible than ever on our streets. This a real concern not just for the traders, but for all the city's inhabitants. We all know Cork is a great city. Some would say it is the best city in the country, but we must ensure it receives additional Garda resources and a visible Garda presence on the main streets. I am sure the Tánaiste will agree with me on the last point.

I am in full agreement with the Deputy on the merits of Cork city, which is one the great cities. Many people who visit Cork remark on that very frequently.

The issue of crime was also referenced by Deputy Nolan, and there has been an increase. The funding is there. There had been challenges with the training centre in respect of that. The Minister of State, Deputy James Browne, will deal with this matter in more detail.

In response to Deputy Higgins, the issue is not one of resources, but recruitment and retention are significant issues. I think we have recruited up to 19,000 additional personnel to the HSE over the past number of years, and we are constantly recruiting. I will ask the Minister for Health to attend to the specific issue the Deputy raised about the lack of public health nurses in her location.

On the issues raised by Deputies Nolan and O'Sullivan, the deployment of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner. However, record funding has been put in place for the recruitment this year of an additional 1,000 gardaí. Many of them have already been recruited and have entered training. There are an additional 400 civilian staff as well, which will release gardaí to carry out other duties. An additional Garda recruitment process has started as well. I encourage people to apply for that.