Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State to the Chamber. When is it expected the report from the export forum on antisocial behaviour will be received, in light of the increasing incidence of antisocial behaviour throughout the country, including Galway, my home city, but also other cities such as Dublin, Cork, Waterford and Limerick? There have been issues with antisocial behaviour, which has certainly increased in the inner cities since the pandemic began more than 18 months ago. There are a number of reasons for that. I can speak about Eyre Square at first hand, having been born and raised 200 yards from it. The square has suffered from a spate of antisocial behaviour in recent times, including a tragic incident where a young woman lost sight in one eye when a firework was let off. This has become such an issue that the chief superintendent of Mill Street Garda station in Galway city has even suggested the square may have to be closed at a certain hour. As a Member of the Oireachtas, I certainly would not be in agreement with that suggestion, which is not a solution.

As the Minister of State is aware, Eyre Square is in the heart of Galway city, very close to the train and bus stations and is often the first impression of our city for visitors and tourists alike. Galway has always been a largely safe and happy place to live and visit. We cannot allow the actions of a tiny minority to alter that. A Christmas market with a large number of stalls is open in Eyre Square. The market has activities for kids and adults, across the divide. It will run right up to Christmas and offers an opportunity because there is full-time security in the square now. However, the Garda presence in Eyre Square will need to be enhanced immediately after the market closes. That issue must be dealt with. The visibility of gardaí is vital in reducing crimes. We are currently seeing that, with the success of Operation Citizen in Dublin, with which the Minister of State will be familiar. As highlighted last week, that operation has reduced crime statistics, which is very welcome.

As I said, a number of issues are causing this problem. Hospitality businesses are closing earlier and people have no place to go. This is a major concern. I am fully aware that Garda operations are a matter for the Garda. Is the Department in a position to highlight the importance of locations such as Eyre Square being properly policed? Seeing gardaí on the ground gives certainty to businesses and residents in the inner city in Galway. It is paramount that residents are safe and secure in their homes. I will await the Minister of State's response.