(Dublin Central) asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the vast increase in crime in Dublin city; and if he will make a statement concerning his proposals to deal with the problem.
Ceisteann—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin City Crime.
9.
The Deputy will, I am sure, be glad to hear that the position is not as stated in his question. Crime statistics are compiled by reference to years beginning on 1st October and, in the first seven months of the current year, that is from 1st October to 30th April, the provisional figures for indictable crime show the very substantial drop of 11 per cent as compared with the corresponding period in the previous year.
(Dublin Central): I am sure the Minister is aware that he had 2,500 employees in this city this morning marching to his office in St. Stephen's Green. Is he aware that people trying to carry out their lawful duties in this city are prohibited from doing so by a crowd of gangsters—I can call them nothing else? That is the reason why there was a protest outside the Minister's office this morning by the licensed barmen who find it impossible to carry out their duties by virtue of the fact that they are intimidated by these people who are roving the city.
I am so aware and I sympathise completely with the people who are going about their lawful occupations and who find themselves intimidated and attacked by thugs. Any assistance I can give towards easing that position will be given gladly and generously.