asked the Minister for Justice (a) the number of times petrol bombs have been thrown at police or used in the city of Dublin since 1st January, 1972; (b) the number of people arrested in respect of such incidents; and (c) what action the Government intends taking to protect the community and property from petrol bombers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Petrol Bomb Incidents.
34.
Provisional figures supplied by the Garda indicate that, during the period referred to, petrol bombs were thrown in the course of 14 incidents in Dublin and that seven persons were arrested in connection with one of the incidents. Eight others were arrested with petrol bombs in their possession, in situations where none had been thrown.
The measures taken to deal with disturbances of any kind are determined by the Garda in the exercise of their professional judgment.
Did the Minister state that only 14 petrol bombs were thrown?
No, that is not what I said. The question relates to the number of times petrol bombs have been thrown and I said that there were 14 incidents in which petrol bombs were thrown.
Is the Minister aware of the disquiet of shop and factory owners at the use of petrol bombs and that we do not seem to have sufficient gardaí to protect property and thereby protect people's jobs?
No, I am not so aware.