Patrick Costello (Dublin South Central, Green Party)
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504. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide an update on the work of the Expert Forum on Anti-Social Behaviour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9832/23]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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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 I am pleased to chair. The Forum is examining a broad range of issues, 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.

The Forum meets regularly, with the most recent meeting scheduled for 28 February.

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.

As Chair of the Forum, I have convened three subgroups established to consider the specific issues of knife crime, the misuse of scramblers and quadbikes, and responses to Anti-Social Behaviour impacts on housing complexes managed by Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs).

The work of the scrambler sub-group laid the foundation for a new initiative to support local projects to encourage young people in the legal use of motorbikes and, so far, €200,000 has been allocated to assist approved projects.

The knife crime sub-group has examined existing data and possible approaches to community responses, as well as the legislative position. I have been briefed on the work of the sub-group and the question of what further measures might be progressed is subject to consultation with relevant stakeholders.

The AHB subgroup has met twice to date and will complete its work within a few months.