Central Statistics Office, CSO, crime statistics tell us that robbery is up 18% in the first quarter of this year compared with the first quarter of last year. In my constituency, across Roscommon and Galway we have had numerous burglaries in recent weeks and months. The idea of older people who live on their own being afraid in their own homes is a very sad indictment of where we are today. I commend the community policing units across my constituency, which do really great work, particularly in engaging with our older people. I ask the Taoiseach to prioritise Garda numbers, particularly in rural areas where Garda stations have been closed or do not operate on a 24-7 basis. As the Taoiseach will know from his county, rural areas need more community gardaí. We need them to be engaging with our older people, in particular as we have seen so many burglaries in recent months.

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. No one likes the idea, by any manner or means, of any person, but particularly an older person living in isolation, being in any way fearful in their own home. The home should be a safe haven for people. I will certainly pass on the Deputy's specific comments about Roscommon and Galway and the importance of a Garda presence in rural areas to the Minister for Justice. Obviously, the Garda Commissioner allocates resources but I am sure the Minister can raise that matter with him.