Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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279. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide an update regarding the Garda's work in dealing with cash-for-gold signs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48967/14]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that Dublin City Council has advised An Garda Síochána that the issue of 'cars for cash signs' is being dealt with by them as a litter problem and that it continues to remove these signs across the city on a regular basis. Where such businesses are identified, Gardaí conduct enquiries to establish their bona fidesand where there are suspicions of criminality the matter is fully investigated and appropriate action taken. In May 2014, a targeted operation entitled 'Metal Theft Day of Action' was instigated wherein Dublin Metropolitan Region North personnel, specifically targeted private tow truck operators with links to criminal activity and 'cash for cars' operators within the Division. As part of this operation searches were conducted in premises involved in the breaking of vehicles. Further, in August 2014 a targeted Regional operation to deal with targets associated with the 'cash for cars' businesses and persons operating towing equipment was coordinated by Dublin Metropolitan Region, Regional Traffic and local Divisional Garda resources.

With regard to 'Cash for Gold'businesses, I have been informed by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána investigates all reports where persons suspected of being involved in burglaries are using cash for gold outlets to liquidate stolen property. Where any ongoing issues are highlighted, investigations are conducted to target any criminality.