Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 209: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will advise on a matter (details supplied). [37551/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is in Santry Garda District. Local Garda management is aware of difficulties being experienced by residents in the area as a result of anti-social behaviour.

A member of the local Community Policing Unit is allocated to the area who liaises with local residents and attends residents' meetings to help address their concerns. I am informed that the Sergeant-in-charge of the Community Policing Unit is aware of the situation in the area referred to and that further contacts between gardaí and residents will take place shortly in this regard.

The area is subject to regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes personnel, including the Community Policing Unit, the Garda Mountain Bike Unit supplemented by the District Detective and Drug Units, the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel. Local Garda management closely monitors such patrols and other operational strategies in place, in conjunction with crime trends and policing needs of the communities, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. The situation will be kept under review, with primary consideration being given to the needs of residents.

Incidents of public disorder and anti-social behaviour reported to the Garda authorities are the subject of investigation and dealt with appropriately, including by juvenile or adult caution, fixed charge notices or initiating criminal proceedings. Any persons found engaging in such behaviour will continue to be dealt with appropriately in accordance with the law.

Current policing plans in the area are designed to address issues of crime and public order offences, including the prevention of public order offences; 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 residents. This strategy is central to the delivery of the policing service to the area in question.