Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 177: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason gardaí were threatening protestors and protectors on the Rath Lugh, Lismullen site, County Meath with the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act with arrest despite the ownership of the land in question being questionable and the fact protestors were trying to prevent the law being broken by private developers working on behalf of the State in the attempted destruction of a national monument as per the National Monuments Act 1930; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11037/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 178: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of Garda operations relating to the ongoing dispute regarding the M3 construction works at Lismullen, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11038/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 177 and 178 together.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a policing plan has been prepared in respect of the obligations of An Garda Síochána to prevent any breaches of the criminal law occurring during the construction of the M3 motorway. The policing measures in place are deemed necessary by local Garda management who are satisfied that sufficient Garda resources are available to prevent any such breaches. I am informed that the cost of Garda operations in this matter from 1 July, 2007 to 10 February, 2008 is approximately €160,600. The allocation of resources for this operation are closely monitored and kept under review. I am further informed that part of the area referred to, where the protestors are currently encamped, is owned by Coillte, and the remainder is owned by the National Roads Authority. This area is fenced off for construction purposes. In preventing breaches of the criminal law, An Garda Síochána enforce all relevant legislative provisions.