Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 683: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [37925/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that an objection to the renewal of licences held by the premises referred to by the Deputy was made by An Garda Síochána in 2008 at the annual licensing court. The licences were renewed by the court.

I am further informed that Gardaí from Raheny and Clontarf Garda stations police the area concerned and maintain regular contact with the management of the premises referred to in order to address public order issues which may arise.

Local Garda management is aware of anti-social behaviour in the vicinity of the premises and has designated it a public order hot-spot. Additional Gardaí, including a dedicated public order unit, are deployed in this area, particularly during weekends and when events are being held, to prevent and detect anti-social behaviour and other public order offences. Inspections are carried out of all licensed premises in the area to ensure that the provisions of the liquor licensing and other relevant legislation are being complied with.

A policing strategy has been put in place in the Garda District concerned generally to target, in a proportionate manner, public order and other anti-social type behaviour offences. The numbers of patrons attending licensed premises and other venues within the District, trends in public order offences and concerns and issues raised by local residents' associations, community groups, local representatives and the local authorities with An Garda Síochána are taken into consideration in implementing the strategy.

Local Garda management closely monitors patrols and other operational strategies in place, in conjunction with crime trends and the policing needs of the communities in these areas, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. The situation will continue to be kept under review, with primary consideration being given to the needs of residents.

Current policing plans in the area are predicated on the prevention of anti-social behaviour and public disorder, 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 the residents. This strategy will continue to be central to the delivery of a policing service to the area in question.