Written answers

Wednesday, 26 September 2007

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Garda Recruitment

10:00 pm

Photo of James BannonJames Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 1039: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will appoint the promised 2000 extra Gardaí, in view of the fact that low-level staffing in rural areas is causing an escalation of anti-social behaviour, which is impacting on communities, with children afraid to play in their gardens and making neighbourhoods unsafe for families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20666/07]

Photo of Brian Lenihan JnrBrian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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Under the Programme for Government the strength of An Garda Síochána will rise to 15,000 Gardaí in 2010 and 16,000 in 2012. A total of 780 recruits have commenced training in the Garda College since the beginning of 2007 and a new rolling recruitment campaign has just begun — advertisements in relation to it were placed in last Sunday's national newspapers.

Specifically in relation to anti-social behaviour, An Garda Síochána are identifying local public order and anti-social behaviour hot spots and developing responsive actions and plans. The measures outlined in the Programme for Government to tackle anti-social behaviour will be introduced. A number of initiatives for early intervention in anti-social behaviour have begun including improved CCTV systems, warnings from members of An Garda Síochána, good behaviour contracts, the Juvenile Diversions Programmes and ultimately a behaviour order from the Children Court. In addition to the foregoing, the Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of a joint policing committee (JPC) in each local authority administrative area. The purpose of these committees is to provide a forum where members of a local authority and the senior Garda officers responsible for the policing of that area, with the participation of Oireachtas members and community interests, can consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of the area including the levels and patterns of anti-social behaviour such as the misuse of alcohol and drugs. There are currently 22 committees established as part of a pilot project, with a further seven being established. It is intended to establish JPCs in all local authority areas by early 2008. I am convinced that the work of these committees will make a significant contribution to reducing anti-social behaviour.

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