Written answers

Tuesday, 5 July 2022

Department of Justice and Equality

Antisocial Behaviour

Photo of Willie O'DeaWillie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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20. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if there will be changes to laws relating to knife crime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35649/22]

Photo of Helen McEnteeHelen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The impact of anti-social behaviour is well recognised and is highlighted in the ongoing work of the Expert Forum on Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) which Minister Browne is pleased to chair. The Forum is examining a broad range of issues, including knife crime, with a focus on developing measures which will address the factors which give rise to ASB and its impact on community morale and quality of life.

Members of the Forum are drawn from a number of State agencies, including An Garda Síochána, the Probation Service and key Government Departments, as well as a broad representation of community, business, academic and other experts.

Minister Browne has convened two subgroups established to consider the specific issues of knife crime and the misuse of scramblers and quadbikes. Other subgroups may be established to tackle additional specific issues as required.

The knife crime sub-group has examined existing data and possible approaches to community responses as well as the legislative position. Minister Browne has been briefed on the work of the sub-group and is considering what further measures might be progressed.My Department remains in contact with An Garda Síochána and the Probation Service in this regard.

It is important to note, based on international evidence, that there are no quick-fix solutions to tackling knife crime and it is clear that longer term, evidence-based strategies are needed. Knife crime cannot be addressed in isolation but as part of the strategic responses to address anti-social behaviour, street violence, youth offending and domestic violence.

My Department's overriding concern is that we pursue the actions which have the best chance of being effective and making a real difference. Therefore, we have to balance the strong impulse to react based on our shared outrage at violent crimes with a careful consideration of the best available evidence on what is most likely to yield real improvements.

Comments

Madeline O'Brien
Posted on 8 Jul 2022 10:56 am (Report this comment)

I Madeline O'Brien would like to ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she would comment on the new Justice Plan with the (4) Four Ps
1. Protection
2. prevention
3. Prosecution
4. Policy Coordination

Will the Minister comment on the missing Ps from the plan
5. Proof of People Person Rights.
As in my case I can not report a violent crime against me for over (2) years I am fighting to report the crime against me. I am a victim of a crime and HAVE NO CASE NUMBER, NOI KNOWLEGDE OF GARDA OR GSOC OR MINISTER For JUSTICE all of whom I contacted in relation to this matter.

Could the Minister look at the German Model for Reporting crime and include that in the New plan as PROFF of Crimes against victims here in Ireland.
The current legislation states that GARDA will send letter within (3)three months !!!! 28 months I am still WAITING
The German Model for your reference
https://www.berlin.de/gerichte/_assets/was-moechten-sie-erle...

Regards
Madeline O'Brien MSc

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