Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

One of the priorities announced on 1 November by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy Brian Lenihan, is the establishment of a joint policing committee in every local authority area. These committees were introduced in the Garda Síochána Act 2005, by the former Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Michael McDowell, and will comprise local authority and Oireachtas members, local authority officials, representatives of local community and voluntary organisations as well as senior members of the Garda Síochána. There are 29 committees operating in the pilot areas of Fingal, Offaly, Wicklow, South Dublin and Kerry county councils, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Cork city councils, Drogheda, Sligo and Clonmel borough councils and Athy, Arklow, Ballinasloe, Birr, Bray, Edenderry, Greystones, Letterkenny, Mallow, Tralee, Tuam, Tullamore, Wicklow, Carrick-on-Suir, Cavan and New Ross town councils.

In light of the growing public concern about crime throughout the country, especially violent crime, perhaps the Minister of State could update the House on the progress and achievements of the committees in the pilot areas and the timetable for the full implementation of the scheme. These committees could do much to help the public feel more informed about the activities of the Garda Síochána in the locality. Similar committees have been established in many other countries and similar success can be achieved in Ireland if these committees are monitored and people are kept aware of achievements and activities. The Minister has agreed to the roll-out of these committees. Coming from Roscommon I am aware of the great anxiety of members of local authorities that the committees be established. In most areas it would be of assistance to have elected public representatives from the councils and the Oireachtas working with the Garda Síochána to tackle drugs, drug distribution, anti-social behaviour, organised crime and gangland criminals.

The committees that have been established have proved to be successful. It would be worthwhile to roll out these committees throughout the country as early as possible in 2008. I am pleased the Minister is of the same opinion. Since the end of the dual mandate it is important that Members of the Oireachtas can join these committees. Working with local authority members can assist in keeping the Garda Síochána briefed on what is happening in the locality and counteracting crime.