Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline the additional measures being taken to tackle anti-social behaviour in the run-up to the Halloween period particularly in the Dublin region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46505/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that during the Halloween period appropriate policing measures are put in place in every Garda Division and District through Operation Tombola. Operational orders are prepared in every Garda Region, in particular in the Dublin Metropolitan Region and Border Divisions, to prevent and detect the organised importation for sale of fireworks and police the Halloween period generally. Persons suspected of engaging in the importation, supply or sale of fireworks are identified and targeted, including through intelligence led operations and searches.

During the Halloween period, An Garda Síochána engages with local communities, local authorities and other stakeholders, such as Dublin Bus and the vintners’ associations, in putting plans in place to address the issues that arise. Through the Schools Programme and other local programmes, members of An Garda Síochána deliver the message that fireworks are illegal and highlight the dangers associated with illegally imported fireworks. Gardaí have a liaison mechanism in place with local authorities for the removal of identified stockpiles of combustible materials in advance of Halloween. They also advise managers of off-licences to ensure that their staff are aware of their obligations and responsibilities under licensing legislation relating to the sale of alcohol, in particular to underage persons.

Proactive policing arrangements are in place in the period leading up to and during Halloween. Additional patrols are carried out by uniform personnel as part of high visibility policing initiatives, supported by plain clothes personnel, including District detective and drug units, Divisional crime task forces and Traffic Corps personnel and community policing and mounted bike units, supported by public order units as required. Patrols are directed to pay particular attention to areas where people tend to congregate and where the likelihood of both anti-social behaviour and drinking on the streets may occur.

An Garda Síochána will utilise the strong legislative provisions in place to combat anti-social behaviour and the misuse of fireworks, including those in the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Acts 1994 and 2003, the Criminal Justice Act 2006 and the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008.