Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 248: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a proper traffic and safety plan will be put in place for the residents of an area (details supplied) in Dublin 3 on the days of matches at Croke Park; and if the law on anti-social behaviour and drinking on the streets in these areas will be implemented. [28377/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Policing arrangements for public events and in locations generally, along with the allocation of Garda resources, are solely a matter for the Garda Commissioner. However, where such events take place the Garda authorities work closely with the residents in order to avoid as much disruption as possible.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that an extensive traffic management plan is put in place on each event day in the greater Croke Park area. This plan includes a Garda cordon area around the stadium and extending out to the following junctions — Ballybough Road/Clonliffe Road junction, Drumcondra Road Lower/Clonliffe Road junction and the North Circular Road/Russell Street junction. These junctions and all access routes through the cordon area are manned by Gardaí in order to regulate access.

The outer cordon area is supplemented by members on beat duty at various locations. Divisional Traffic Corps units patrol the outlying areas of the north inner city prior to, during and subsequent to any event within Croke Park, ensuring traffic flow is maintained. A comprehensive risk assessment is carried out prior to each event and a safety plan is put in place that runs in conjunction with the traffic plan. The safety of patrons attending Croke Park, and local residents, is at the core of all plans implemented on event days.

In relation to anti-social behaviour and the consumption of alcohol on the streets in the area concerned, I am advised that Gardaí on duty on match days are directed to pay particular attention to those areas where the likelihood of both anti-social behaviour and street drinking may occur.