Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased to be here in the Seanad this morning to discuss this issue. I thank Senator Humphreys for raising this important issue which I am pleased the Seanad is turning its attention towards. I understand Senator Humphrey refers to the deployment of gardaí on our transport infrastructure. I must advise the Senator that the allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, is a matter solely for the Garda Commissioner and his management team. I do not have any role in that regard, and I think Senator Humphreys accepts that. However, I assure the House, and Senator Humphreys in particular, that I brought this issue to the attention of An Garda Síochána for its consideration and for any action deemed necessary in the circumstances.

In terms of tackling this particular form of crime, I am advised by An Garda Síochána and its management that it engages extensively with transport operators. A range of regional and local operations have been put in place to address incidents and issues that have arisen at specific locations. There is ongoing communication between An Garda Síochána and the respective control centres. Access to good quality closed circuit television, CCTV, tapes helps to provide assistance to gardaí when investigating serious incidents, such as was seen recently in Clongriffin in Dublin. Furthermore, Senators will be aware that An Garda Síochána already employs a wide range of operational measures aimed at tackling public order offences and anti-social behaviour. These measures are underpinned by the existence of a comprehensive legal framework, which assists the Garda in tackling this type of crime.

Addressing local community concerns about public order and anti-social behaviour is a key focus in An Garda Síochána's national community policing model. A range of strong legislative provisions are available to An Garda Síochána in this regard, including the Criminal Damage Act 1991, the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 2003, and the Intoxicating Liquor Acts 2003 and 2008. For its part, the Government remains committed to ensuring An Garda Síochána has all the necessary resources to tackle all forms of criminality in our communities. In this context, the House will be aware that some €1.65 billion was allocated to the Garda Vote for this year, while €98.5 million has been allocated as provision for Garda overtime this year. This will assist the Garda and its operations to tackle this form of criminal behaviour.

The Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country and cities in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. Budget 2018 will support the continuation of this high level of investment in the Garda workforce and ensure the vision of an overall workforce in An Garda Síochána of 21,000 members by 2021 remains firmly on track.