I have received confirmation from An Garda Síochána that the Garda Community Engagement Initiative commenced in Donabate on 26th June and will continue every second Friday throughout the summer as part of Operation Irene in response to representations made by myself and Duncan Smith TD. This initiative provides an important opportunity for residents to raise concerns, seek advice, and speak directly with Gardaí in an accessible, local setting.

The Garda Community Engagement Vehicle will be in the Parish Hall car park every second Friday from 6–9pm until the end of August, and I would strongly encourage anyone with issues or concerns to drop in and speak with the Community Gardaí.

As part of this initiative, there will also be an increased Garda presence around the town centre and across the wider peninsula over the summer months. I want to thank Superintendent Barry, Inspector Clune and our Community Gardaí for their continued support and for the increased patrols in the area.

However, while this engagement initiative is welcome, it does not replace the need for permanent Garda resources in Donabate. Over the past year, I have received a significant increase in calls from resident, often daily, reporting incidents of anti social behaviour, including threats, damage to property, doors being kicked, and recent arson attacks on public amenities. Many residents are understandably fearful, and the current level of Garda resourcing is not sufficient for a town of our size.

The DMR North district now has fewer Gardaí than in 2009, despite a dramatically larger population. Within the next few years, Donabate will be the third largest town in North County Dublin, with a population exceeding 20,000. Permanent Garda resources are required in the immediate short term, and a Garda station will be essential in the long term.

Duncan Smith TD and I have been persistently raising this matter with the Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice.

While national recruitment plans are welcome, Donabate needs dedicated Gardaí on a permanent basis and a Garda station to serve our growing community. We will continue to press for the resources and infrastructure that Donabate needs and deserves and will keep you informed of developments.