Vol. 411 No. 4
52 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the action he proposes to take to tackle the level of crime in the south Dublin area in response to the representations made to him by the Churchtown Active Retirement Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I received the representations referred to from the Churchtown Active Retirement Association, which I referred to the Garda authorities for their consideration.
The Garda authorities are, of course, aware of the incidence of crime in the south Dublin area, including Churchtown. The Churchtown area receives regular attention from foot and mobile patrols operating from Rathfarnham Garda station. In addition, the policing arrangements for the area were augmented recently by the appointment of a community garda. The community garda will act as a link between the Garda Síochána generally and the local community and will have a valuable role in liaising with residents' associations, Neighbourhood Watch and other community groups. The newly appointed community garda will liaise with the Churchtown Active Retirement Association on an on-going basis.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the gardaí are taking all necessary steps to prevent crime in the area and that the situation is being kept under review.
