Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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391. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the action being taken, or that will be taken, to roll out a text alert system in local communities in north Dublin to provide an increased sense of safety to those who feel vulnerable in their own homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27984/14]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I can advise the Deputy that information and advice on establishing text alert schemes in any particular area, including the area referred to by the Deputy is available from local community Gardaí. In addition, guidelines for establishing and operating community text alert schemes have been published by the Garda Commissioner and are available on the Garda website.

The Garda guidelines have been produced to assist local communities in establishing a standardised and efficient method of receiving communication by text message or e-mail from An Garda Síochána. In this context it is considered important to channel community crime prevention efforts and the dissemination of information about criminal incidents or threats within the framework of the Garda guidelines and with the benefit of Garda insight and verification. While my Department is not involved directly in the operation of the guidelines, I understand they have been well received and that hundreds of schemes have already been established at a local level.