7. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet Committee on Justice, Migration and Social Affairs will next meet. [22404/25]

Sentiment score: 0.18

I thank the Taoiseach for his reply, and I commend the Garda. I have noticed more gardaí on the streets in Offaly and across the country recently. That visibility has a real and positive impact. It helps people feel safer, builds community trust and serves as a strong deterrent to crime. With that in mind, I ask the Cabinet Committee on Justice, Migration and Social Affairs to consider the specific needs of smaller rural towns like Banagher, Daingean, Clara and other towns across Offaly and the country. While these towns are assigned gardaí, in practice officers are often drawn away to larger population centres, leaving little or no regular presence locally. More consistent Garda presence in these smaller towns would significantly improve community confidence and security.

Sentiment score: 0.48

25. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet committee that deals with rural affairs and community development will next meet. [22657/25]

Sentiment score: 0.00

Like my fellow Deputies, I congratulate the Offaly minor football team on its great performance last night. Commiserations to Louth. It has had a fantastic year and it is not over yet. Best wishes to the team in the all-Ireland. There was a fantastic finish to the game and it was a fantastic game of football. I thank the Taoiseach for his response. As he knows, many rural communities, particularly in counties such as Offaly, are ageing rapidly. This is no longer a distant trend but a reality now shaping local needs and priorities. We need to ensure that ageing in rural Ireland is matched with proper supports, accessible healthcare, rural transport, housing and community services that allow people to age with dignity and connection. I know we have made a lot of progress in these areas recently but I ask that the issue of rural ageing be placed firmly on the Cabinet committee agenda going forward.

Sentiment score: 0.42