Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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274. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to respond to concerns raised by a local organisation (details supplied) in respect of the anti-social behaviour that is blighting the streets of Drogheda at present; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26737/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I can assure the Deputy that the Government is determined to tackle anti-social behaviour and its causes and to ensure that people are safe and feel safe in their communities, including in Drogheda.

As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including all operational policing matters. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that the Superintendent and Gardaí from Louth South Community Engagement Area met with representatives of the business community and the local Drogheda BIDS organisation in March 2024. A follow up meeting took place on 18 June 2024 and issues of antisocial behaviour and retail theft were discussed.

I understand that following the meeting, a high visibility policing operation was put in place, in line with Operation Táirge.

As part of this operation, the Garda Analyst in Drogheda Garda Station conducted a review of thefts from shops and examined trends in relation to repeat offenders. This resulted in the identification of a number of repeat offenders.

I am informed that high-visibility beat patrols are continuing and additional measures will be put in place by Gardai in the coming days and weeks to address additional concerns.

The Deputy will be interested to know that the information below, provided to me by the Garda authorities, shows a breakdown of theft and public order incidents recorded in Drogheda between 1 January 2024 and 17 June 2024.

Between 1 January 2024 and 31 March 2024 (Q1) there were 35 thefts reported to An Garda Síochána on West Street, Drogheda. 30 charges of theft arose from the 35 incidents and these cases are currently before the courts.

Between 1 April 2024 and 17 June 2024 (Q2) there were 51 thefts reported to An Garda Síochána on West Street, Drogheda. 27 charges of theft arose from the 51 incidents and these cases are currently before the courts. Other incidents of theft for this period are still the subject of investigation.

Between 1 January 2024 and 31 March 2024 (Q1) there were 14 public order incidents reported to An Garda Síochána which occurred on West Street, Drogheda. 14 charges arose from these 14 incidents and these cases are currently before the courts.

Between 1 April 2024 and 17 June 2024 (Q2), there were 11 incidents of public order reported to An Garda Síochána which occurred on West Street, Drogheda. Six charges arose from these 11 incidents and these cases are currently before the courts. Public order incidents for this period are still the subject of investigation.

I am assured by the Garda authorities, that "See Something, Say Something" is operating in Drogheda and efforts have been made to promote the service as a means to anonymously report anti-social behaviour to An Garda Síochána. I understand that 170 submissions have been received to date. These submissions are analysed and used to target anonymously-reported hotspots for anti-social behaviour, allowing local management to direct resources to these areas.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that local Gardaí continue to support the business community in Drogheda and have received great support in return.