asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the widespread attacks on firemen and gardaí at Hallowe'en bonfires in Dublin; that a fireman driver (name supplied) is detained in hospital; that a garda had his shoulder dislocated; and what action he intends to take to protect firemen and gardaí in the execution of their duty.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Hallowe'en Bonfires.
15.
I have seen reports of some such incidents, including those specifically referred to in the Question. I am informed by the Garda Síochána that, on Hallowe'en night in the Dublin Metropolitan Area, the number of such incidents was seven. It is a matter for the Garda to take whatever measures they consider necessary to deal with these deplorable outbursts of rowdyism.
Would the Minister not agree that there were widespread attacks all over the city. Youngsters threw stones and hampered a fireman in his work and the gardaí were pelted with stones and bottles. Surely the Minister is aware that there are certain anarchists in this State who are anxious to bring down the institutions of this State? Is the Minister not now prepared to increase the force to a sufficient strength so that it can deal with these types of outbursts?
The question of the strength of the force is a separate question which was dealt with very fully last week.
Those attacks took place throughout the length and breadth of the country and firemen were hindered in places. If there were not sufficient gardaí present on these occasions surely the Minister will have to agree that more gardaí are required urgently to enforce law in the city?
A number were charged as a result of these incidents and there were sufficient gardaí in each case to put a stop to the rowdyism.
There have been a dozen bank raids and nobody has been arrested. That does not prove anything but the inefficiency of the Minister for Justice, that he is not doing his duty.
The question relates to bonfires.
That may be. The Minister said a few people were arrested but nobody was arrested for the bank robberies.
I am calling Question No. 16.