I propose to take Questions Nos. 439, 440 and 443 together.
As I have indicated to this House on many occasions, tackling serious and organised crime, and bringing those involved to justice, is a key priority for the Government. At operational level the implementation of specific measures to deal with criminal gangs and their criminal activities is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.
I also wish to make it clear that when it comes to the general allocation of financial resources to An Garda Síochána the Government is committed to maintaining frontline services. I will, of course, continue to engage with my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform regarding the Garda budget for 2012 and beyond.
Garda management closely monitors the allocation of resources, including transfers and retirements, in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place on a District, Divisional and Regional level, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. Senior Garda Management is satisfied that a full and comprehensive policing service continues to be delivered and that current structures in place meet the requirement to deliver an effective and efficient service to the community.