asked the Minister for Justice the cost in pay and overtime, fuel and other outgoings incurred by the Gardaí in the policing of the Michael Jackson concert in Páirc Uí Caoimh, Cork, in August, 1988; the contribution which was sought and received from the promoter to cover these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Michael Jackson Concert.
76.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the extra cost to the Garda Síochána Vote of pay and overtime arising from the deployment of gardaí on police duty outside the venue of the concert referred to is estimated at £71,000 approximately. As the Garda role outside the venue was the normal one of protecting persons and property, controlling traffic and generally maintaining law and order, the question of recouping the cost of the duties involved did not arise.
Members of the Force were also engaged inside the venue on crowd-control duties under a long-established arrangement whereby the Garda authorities, at a charge to the organisers or promoters, make available the services of gardaí, at events such as football matches, race meetings, etc., to perform duties for which they would not normally be officially assigned. The charge for this non-public duty at the concert in question came to £24,984, which has been paid by the organisers.