John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 631: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will confirm that sufficient resources will be made available to the Garda to allow for the proper policing of the forthcoming Marlay Park concerts; if he appreciates the need to assure the public following the recent incidents at the Phoenix Park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36887/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda Management liaise closely with the event-organisers when considering and determining the appropriate deployment of Garda resources at such events, on both public and non-public duties. This involves planning meetings, site inspections, major emergency planning and training and other issues. Full operational policing plans and event management plans are prepared by An Garda Síochána and the organisers. Traffic management plans are also prepared for each event, details of which, including diversions etc., are circulated for the information of all road-users. Personnel deployed on such duties are regularly monitored to ensure optimal deployment.

Garda Management advises that the specific forthcoming events referred to by the Deputy are to be held at a venue in Rathfarnham Garda sub-District on 23,24 & 25 August, 2012, under the remit of Chief Superintendent, Dublin Metropolitan Region South. In preparing for these events, the senior management team in the Division has held a number of meetings with the organisers of these events to ensure that appropriate measures are in place for the management of the events, including the deployment of sufficient Garda resources and the security / stewarding of the event by the event-organisers. Appropriate risk assessments will also be conducted, taking into consideration the attendance profile, band / entertainer profile and other matters considered relevant. Public safety is, and continues to be, a priority for An Garda Síochána and, in preparing for such events, all relevant stakeholders, including An Garda Síochána, representatives from the Local Authority, other emergency service providers, event promoters and organisers meet and agree an event management plan which is implemented and which is subject of review following each event.

An Garda Síochána is examining all issues pertaining to the recent incidents which occurred in the Phoenix Park, including the implementation of the plans which had been in place. An initial meeting was held with the concert organisers last week and it was agreed that both organisations will carry out a more in depth review regarding all aspects of the event. The fact is that the arrangements which were in place on the Saturday night did not prevent the type of behaviour which took place.

The Garda Commissioner has undertaken to let me have a report following that review and I can assure the Deputy that I am determined any lessons will be taken fully into account in future planning and risk management of such events.