Vol. 563 No. 2
174 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Garda Operation Encounter which commenced on 23 February 2003 is still in operation; the number of Garda personnel allocated to the operation; the number of arrests made and people charged as a result of the operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7335/03]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Operation Encounter came into force on 23 February 2002. This ongoing operation is focused on all issues of public order occurring in the community. Particular attention is paid to nightclubs, fast food outlets and other venues at which large numbers of people congregate and where there is potential for disorder.
Additional Garda resources have been made available, and plans have been drawn up by each of the Garda regional commanders to prioritise the deployment of those resources. Deployments vary from place to place and from time to time.
The target hours of the operation are determined locally, based on the specific circumstances prevailing at each location. The Garda pay particular attention to ensuring that the owners and managers of premises are fully aware of their responsibilities and of the duty of care they owe to their patrons and other members of the public.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that since the introduction of the operation and up to 2 March 2003, preliminary figures indicate that the following crimes have been detected: 9,269 assaults, including 3,056 assaults causing harm or serious harm; 22,404 incidents of threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour; 33,792 incidents of public drunkenness; 10,027 cases of failing to comply with Garda directions; 4,993 cases of disorderly conduct; and 521 cases of sale or supply of alcohol to minors.
