Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 116: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he proposes to take to address the recent increase in pipe bombs in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27164/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The recent increase in the use of pipe bombs and other improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is a matter of concern to me. That concern is shared by the Garda Commissioner.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that all available intelligence is fully analysed and used in the strategic deployment of both local and specialised operational Garda units in pursuing persons and groups who use pipe bombs and similar devices in their criminal activities.

Both uniformed and plain-clothes patrols and checkpoints by Gardaí have been increased in the areas targeted by these attacks. Intelligence-led operations are ongoing, including searches and arrests aimed at preventing attacks and the apprehension of persons suspected of being involved in such attacks. The resources of Operation Anvil and the Organised Crime Unit are focused on apprehending the criminals using these devices.

Over the last number of months, An Garda Síochána has focused on individuals involved in this type of criminality. A number of search operations have taken place with the object of identifying the source(s) of these devices. A quantity of such devices has been seized, resulting in persons being arrested and charged. These persons remain before the courts.

I am further informed that in May 2007 a Detective Superintendent was appointed to co-ordinate investigation of incidents involving the use of hand grenades and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) within the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) for the period from 2005. The Superintendent is also tasked with establishing whether there were any links or associations in cases where IEDs have been used in the DMR.

All incidents of this nature are the subject of a thorough investigation by the relevant District Officer and his investigation team, with ongoing support from the relevant operational and technical units of An Garda Síochána and with assistance as required from the Defence Forces.