asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement on the progress of the neighbourhood watch scheme.
Written Answers. - Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.
34.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that at present there are 720 neighbourhood watch schemes, involving some 164,000 households, in operation throughout the country and that a further 30 schemes are being organised.
The Garda authorities are satisfied with the operation of neighbourhood watch, with the numbers participating in it and with the degree of public support and commitment it is getting. They consider that it is playing an important role in the fight against crime by involving the community in crime prevention, by enhancing Garda/community relations and by promoting a greater sense of security especially among the more vulnerable members of the community.