Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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511. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the recent incidents of burglaries in Kilbarrack, Dublin 5; the discussions he has had with Garda authorities on the matter; the action being taken to address the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50731/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is in the Coolock and Raheny Garda Districts and that local Garda management closely monitor the incidence of burglary in the area and put in place appropriate responses. In that regard I am further informed that Garda data shows a decrease in burglaries in the Coolock and Raheny area, in line with the national trend. As the Deputy may be aware the latest crime statistics show that the rate of burglary has decreased by 8.9% nationally for twelve months ending 30 June 2013 and this underlines the impact being made by Gardaí under Operation Fiacla. As part of the measures which are coordinated under Operation Fiacla, Operation Acer is in force throughout the Dublin Metropolitan Region, including Coolock and Raheny. It is an intelligence driven operation and includes analysis led checkpoints and patrols to target specific areas and case manage targeted offenders. These arrangements are kept under review to ensure adjustments are made to maintain the effective focus of the operation.

Operation Acer operates alongside ongoing community policing measures, including problem solving with the community and ongoing liaison with schools, businesses and households in providing crime prevention advice and assistance to victims of burglary. In particular, I am advised that a recent crime prevention leaflet drop in the area has been well received in the community and that Community Police have also been in direct contact with the Kilbarrack/Foxfield Community Residents Association and attended a meeting with Kilbarrack residents in November 2013. At this meeting Gardaí provided crime prevention information and advice, particularly for elderly residents. There is also full engagement with local Neighbourhood Watch and other community groups in the area.

Local Garda Management closely monitors the allocation of all resources in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in the area to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.