I have recently sought and received Government approval for the drafting, on a priority basis, of a new Criminal Justice (Public Order) Bill.
The purpose of the Bill is to provide the Garda Síochána with additional powers to tackle anti-social behaviour. It will target drunk and unruly elements who congregate late at night outside or in the vicinity of licensed and other premises such as fast food outlets who, by their aggressive and intimidating behaviour, threaten the peace and well-being of decent citizens and are a danger to others and themselves.
As announced in the Government's legislation programme on 29 January 2002, it is planned that the Bill will be published before Easter.