Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 111: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request a report from the Garda authorities on the steps they are taking in response to the vandalism to cars and other anti-social behaviours in the West Road area of East Wall, Dublin 3, particularly in the early hours of Saturday and Sunday; the number of arrests made and persons charged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30207/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management has put an initiative in place in the area concerned, whereby additional Gardaí are deployed over two tours per day on two dedicated beats. This ensures a concentrated and visible Garda presence in the area. These patrols are in addition to the normal complement of community Gardaí permanently allocated to this area. In addition, a dedicated patrol van with uniformed Gardaí patrols the area between 8 pm and 5 am every Friday and Saturday night. These patrols are backed up by the Divisional Crime Task Force, District Detective Units and the Divisional Drug Units which also actively patrol the area.

I am further informed that Operation Assist, which provides additional patrols by Garda Mounted and Dog Units in support of District and Divisional Units, is also in place in the area since 1 August, 2006.

I understand that seven persons have been arrested and charged with a total of 157 offences of the type referred to. Bail has been granted subject to strict conditions, including curfews, which are closely monitored by the Gardaí. There is also ongoing liaison between local Garda management and the local authority in the enforcement of the provisions of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2002.

I am advised that the Community Policing Unit maintains regular contact with residents of the East Wall area through the Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Local Garda management will continue to monitor the policing situation in the area concerned, ensuring that it receives regular and ongoing attention.