Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Question 156: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of the request by the Garda to the protesters at the Central Bank of Ireland, his view that we may need legislation to deal with these protesters who now have gone beyond what is reasonable in a democratic society; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13273/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the situation concerning the protest encampment referred to had been monitored by An Garda Síochána for some time. The group in question were encamped on private property and there had been ongoing liaison between An Garda Síochána, the group in question, the Central Bank and other interested parties. Policing of the protest was of course at all times an operational matter for An Garda Síochána.

I am further informed that An Garda Síochána recently requested the protesters to leave the encampment, particularly in the light of health and safety and public safety issues arising at the site. A positive response was not received to this request. Against this background, this morning the Gardaí removed the encampment. While I have no plans at present for changes in the relevant legislation, it is a matter which I will keep under review.