Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)

I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion and congratulate Deputy Charles Flanagan on tabling it.

Anti-social behaviour must be tackled as a matter of urgency. It is destroying many communities and this is very evident in many towns and villages. I am regularly approached about it in my constituency. People in Newcastle West almost feel under siege at certain times of the weekend. Extra resources must be provided to ensure anti-social behaviour is tackled. In too many communities, decent people are being harassed and bullied. Anti-social behaviour is spoiling our sense of community and degrading our environment. It reduces our quality of life and chips away at our sense of security, civic pride and peace of mind.

Let me elaborate on the comments of Deputy Timmins. Early intervention in respect of many children in difficulty is very important in ensuring their behaviour is controlled and that their mental illness dealt with. According to the governor of Mountjoy Prison, some 40% of prisoners suffer from attention deficit disorder, which is not being dealt with properly. Many prisoners are suffering from psychiatric illnesses, especially those who have committed minor offences and petty crimes, and they are not being treated in prison. If their problems were addressed, much anti-social behaviour would be tackled.

The problems that lead to anti-social behaviour should be addressed when those concerned are children. A particular difficulty arises when dealing with children who engage in anti-social behaviour. There is a perception that nothing can be done but I do not accept this. Where a child offends, a system of family conferences should be introduced that incorporates restorative justice provisions within its parameters. The child should be present at each conference and the focus should be on accountability for wrongdoing. The conference should be convened by the gardaí and should formulate an action plan for the child. The action plan should or may include the making of an apology or financial or other reparation to the victim. It should make provision relating to the child's lifestyle, such as attendance at school or participation in appropriate sports or recreational activities.

Action plans should also provide that children or young people should stay away from certain places or people in order to avoid involvement in anti-social activity. They may also include a curfew, especially at night. This should be done in respect of children who engage in anti-social behaviour.

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