John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Question 247: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the increase in the number of break-ins around the Northumberland Place area of Dublin; the steps the Gardaí have taken to deal with this issue; if there are any closed circuit television cameras located in the area; if there are plans to locate CCTV cameras there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32982/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is patrolled by uniformed and plain-clothes Gardaí from Irishtown Garda Station, including the District Drug Unit, Detective Unit, Garda Mountain Bike Unit and the Community Policing Unit. I am further informed that in addition to regular mobile and foot patrols the area is patrolled by the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Unit to ensure that a concentrated visible presence is maintained in the area concerned.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that there is no increase in the number of recorded burglaries in the area. However, current policing policy in the area concerned is predicated on the prevention of crime, including crimes of violence against persons and property, and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a policing service to the area in question.

A Crime Prevention Officer is available to advise on good practice in matters relating to crime prevention and reduction. Also, security reviews and audits will be conducted on request.

I understand that there are no Garda closed circuit camera system in the area concerned and An Garda Síochána is not aware of plans for its introduction. Furthermore, the CCTV Advisory Committee has not received an application for a Garda CCTV scheme for the area.