Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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96. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will address concerns raised in regard to security at events (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20127/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will appreciate that the planning and implementation of policing operations in relation to major public events is a matter for the Garda authorities in the first instance.

I am advised that prior to any event, Garda management prepares a full and comprehensive Policing Plan, including a Risk Assessment and an assessment of all information and intelligence available in relation to the event. The deployment of Garda resources for events is commensurate with the risk level assigned to each event.

In relation to the role of the Defence Forces, I understand that among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence 2015 is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to provide assistance and support to An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. I am advised that there are regular coordination and liaison meetings that take place between the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.

I am also advised that planning for an event includes liaison with the local transport service providers, to ensure sufficient transport is in place given the high volumes of persons anticipated to be attending such events, with assurances being provided that additional transport would be provided for the event and would be available afterwards to transport all concerned as quickly as possible to dissipate any threat of possible associated violence.

Furthermore, An Garda Síochána has in place a network of CCTV systems that are planned and implemented in light of identified operational needs and priorities. Under the Garda Síochána Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021 it is envisaged that CCTV will be used in new ways utilising technologies such as Face in the Crowd and Shape in the Crowd biometrics to identify key targets and enhance community safety. The Programme is being supported by significant Government investment of some €330 million, including €205 million under the Capital Plan, in Garda ICT infrastructure over the period 2016 to 2021. This major investment will allow An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting edge technologies in the fight against crime.

Underpinning all of these measures is the Government's ongoing commitment to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. The Government plans to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. This year, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan which is in train within An Garda Síochána. Approximately 300 appointments will also be made to the Garda Reserve.