Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 330: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will expedite the introduction of on the spot fines with increased penalties for public urination in view of the extent of this problem in residential areas close to major stadia on big match or event days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17827/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Criminal Justice Act 2006 contains provisions to deal with public order offences. Section 184 amends the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 to provide for a fixed penalty procedure in relation to the public order offences of disorderly conduct in a public place and intoxication in a public place as an alternative to proceedings being taken in the first instance (and for the prescribing of the penalty).

I am informed by the Garda authorities that work on the necessary arrangements for the introduction of these provisions as soon as possible is progressing.

Policing arrangements for public events and in locations generally, along with the allocation of Garda resources, are a matter for the Garda Commissioner. Where such events take place the Garda authorities work closely with local residents in order to avoid as far as possible disruption to local communities.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that every effort is made by local Garda management, on the occasions of major match days or events, to ensure appropriate attention is afforded to public order offences. Gardaí on duty on such occasions are pro-active in dealing with any attendant problems arising. In addition, Garda patrol vans are also on patrol to assist in addressing public order offences.