Michéal Martin criticised the Government policy of closing of certain Garda stations across the country.
Martin insisted that a Garda presence on the ground is “a key deterrent to criminality”.
The Fianna Fáil leader made his comments today at Stepaside Garda Station in Dublin. The Deputy said that some people were living in fear in certain areas due to the lessened Garda presence.
He insisted that it was time to re-think the policy and ensure the safety of the people.
“I think the policy of placing more emphasis on mobility of gardaí as opposed to presence of gardaí on the ground, in my view, was misdirected,” he said.
“And I think keeping presence on the ground, I think is a key deterrent against criminality.”