Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 to 8, inclusive, together.

My Department is actively involved with the work of the programme implementation board, headed by its independent chairperson, Mr. Michael Stone. The board and its four subgroups meet every month to oversee progress on the 54 actions set out in the Mulvey report. The chairman of the board reports on a regular basis to an oversight group of senior officials chaired by the Secretary General of my Department. This provides an opportunity to resolve any structural barriers or issues highlighted by the board.

Two months ago I highlighted the wide range of projects and supports that had been put in place as a starting point and emphasised the need to shift the focus to actions for the longer term. Two of the biggest issues are policing and employment.

I can report that since April, 51 new gardaí have been assigned to the area to increase patrols and restore community policing to the area. With patrols targeting drug dealing and anti-social behaviour black spots, this is already making a difference and will improve the sense of community safety and provide a positive platform from which to deliver a strong and visible community policing service. The divisional drugs unit is now restored to full capacity and has undertaken a number of successful operations resulting in seizures and arrests.

A new social employment scheme for the area, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Affairs, has resulted in 30 new jobs in local community projects delivering key social services. These 30 staff members started work in recent weeks in local childcare and youth services, older people services and local environmental services.

On 1 June, 48 local people of all ages and genders sailed into Dublin Port, journeying from Belfast and Liverpool on 16 tall ships, having spent a week sail training. I know that in itself it was a small thing, but it was made possible by community, statutory bodies and business working together. I particularly want to recognise and thank Sail Training Ireland for its assistance. For many of those who took part, this will be a life-changing experience, working and training side by side with people from other nationalities, breaking down barriers and overcoming fears. It opens up a world of possibilities for many and this is what the north-east inner city programme is all about - new opportunities and equality of opportunity.

The board is working with Dublin City Council to ensure the look and feel of the area is improved through refurbishment and cleaning works, greening the area and tackling derelict sites.

The Government will continue to support Mr. Michael Stone and the board in the work they are doing, which is seeing good collaboration between State services, community projects and local employers.

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