Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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Question 164: To ask the Minister for Justice and Law Reform his plans to enhance the security of public transport commuters and staff through a separate transport policing unit or any other mechanism in view of the recent spate of anti-social and violent attacks on the Luas tram and other public transport systems; his views regarding this alleged recent rise in anti-social and criminal attacks on public transport staff and commuters and if he has been briefed by the Department of Transport or the Railway Procurement Agency on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40416/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that liaison mechanisms are in place between An Garda Síochána and transportation services, including Luas, Dublin Bus and Iarnród Éireann in the Dublin Metropolitan Region at both senior management and local level. Designated Inspectors from the Dublin Metropolitan Region Traffic Corps have been nominated to liaise with each of the service providers to address any policing issues which arise.

I am further informed that policing measures, including high-visibility patrols and covert operations, are in place in Garda Districts and Divisions along the Luas and Iarnród Éireann lines to support security measures put in place by Luas and Iarnród Éireann management. This includes dedicated initiatives, particularly at night, during festivities and other occasions when there is a high volume of traffic. Crime trends relating to public disorder and other anti-social behaviour associated with public transportation are closely monitored by senior Garda management within the Dublin Metropolitan Region and appropriate action is undertaken as necessary.

There are ongoing contacts at senior level between my Department and the Department of Transport. Garda management liaises on an ongoing basis with the Railway Procurement Agency. Responsibility for the allocation of resources within An Garda Síochána rests with the Garda Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team. It is currently not considered necessary to establish a dedicated transport policing unit.