asked the Minister for Justice what measures he is taking to provide an adequate police patrol of the Drimnagh area, Dublin, in view of the marked increase in vandalism in this area.
48.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Garda Patrols.
47.
asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí on foot patrol in the Drimnagh area, Dublin.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 48 together. I am having the police requirements of the Drimnagh area examined as part of the general review of strength distribution in which the research and planning unit of the Garda Síochána is at present engaged. I am not at present in a position to say when this examination will be completed. It would not be in the public interest to indicate the number of gardaí engaged on a particular police duty.
Has the Minister received any complaints about this area in regard to the extensive vandalism which presents a very serious problem for the residents there? Could the Garda have another look at the position? Certainly the present force there is inadequate to deal with the degree of vandalism which prevails.
There have been complaints about malicious damage and vandalism in this area as in all other city areas and the Garda are paying special attention to the problem in the Drimnagh and other areas.
The Garda admit that there are not adequate numbers to deal with the situation. This is the problem. They would if they could.
I cannot accept that.