PRESS RELEASE17/11/2005 New 14-point policing plan is key to tackling crime - Kelleher Cork North-Central Fianna Fáil TD Billy Kelleher, deputy Government chief whip, has said the new 14-point policing plan will tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and put more gardaí on our streets. ‘The Dillon’s Cross-based Fianna Fáil TD said Garda numbers will reach a historic high of 14,000 next year. Over €80 million will be made available for Garda overtime. That’s part of an overall funding package of some €1,200 million for the Garda Siochána announced as part of this year’s Budget Estimates,’ said Deputy Kelleher. He said by 2007 members of the Garda Traffic Corps will have almost doubled under the new plan. ‘There is funding for extra speed cameras and other equipment to help prevent road deaths. Garda radios, which I pushed for earlier this year, are to replaced with more high-tech digital communications equipment. Everyone in the “blue lights” emergency services will be able to access that integrated digital system,’ said Deputy Kelleher. He said today’s Estimates show this Government’s continued commitment to tackling crime. ‘Under our watch the overall crime rate has actually dropped. But the new 14 crime-busting plan recognises there is never room for complacency,’ said Deputy Kelleher. ENDS
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