andMr. P.J. Burke asked the Minister for Justice whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to provide for minimum penalties for crimes of violence perpetrated against members of the Garda Síochána in the course of their duty.
33.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Crimes of Violence.
32.
andMr. P.J. Burke asked the Minister for Justice whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to provide for minimum penalties for crimes of violence against elderly persons, particularly for crimes of violence against elderly ladies on the public thoroughfare.
With the permission of the Leas-Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions 32 and 33 together.
On 18th November, I gave a detailed reply to a number of Questions that were asked about crimes of violence in Dublin, where the crime problem is most serious. I mentioned the steps that had been and were being taken to improve the position. As I said then, if these measures do not bring about the improvement that I hope for, I shall consider what further steps can be taken.
I expect that the Courts will award penalties appropriate to the offences referred to by the Deputies.
34.
andMr. P.J. Burke asked the Minister for Justice whether in view of the recent increase in the number of crimes of violence in and around the city of Dublin, he will provide for doubling the patrols on all beats within the city and county areas which at present are patrolled by single Gardaí.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that they are not in favour of double patrols, except in conditions or in a locality where circumstances make it necessary.
Major de Valera
I should like to ask the Minister whether he is aware that in the circumstances that now have developed single Garda patrols in certain areas are inadequate, and whether, if the suggestion in the question is not acceptable, some other precautions will be taken to ensure that adequate reinforcements are at hand for a Garda involved in a threat in the course of his duty?
As the Deputy is no doubt aware patrol cars are in attendance almost within a few minutes of the 999 signal and if people would avail of that to a greater extent, especially citizens who have telephones, I have no doubt it would be of considerable help and of considerable value to the police force. As I said at the end of the reply to the question, in certain conditions or in a locality where circumstances make it necessary, the police are prepared to consider the suggestion made by the Deputy.
Major de Valera
I should like to ask the Minister to consider this seriously because I fear that we shall later be faced with a tragedy that might be avoided if precautions are taken now.
Could the Minister give any reason as to why this increase in crime has taken place? Has there been any examination carried into the most fundamental part of it rather than applying a remedy——
That is a separate question.
It is a terrible reflection on social conditions in Dublin.
The question relates to patrols.
Is the Minister aware that 300 men were knocked off assistance at the Labour Exchange in the past month, that they are a potential danger and will add to the problem?
That is also a separate question.
Nevertheless I am putting the facts before the Minister.