Vol. 446 No. 6
86 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works will ensure that trees and shrubs along the Royal Canal bank, Dublin 7, between Dorset street and Mountjoy Prison are properly maintained in view of the fact that the local residents association is concerned that the overgrowth is providing concealment for undesirables, muggers and other such persons. [2621/94]
The towpath along the Royal Canal between Dorset Street and Mountjoy Prison was planted with trees and shrubs by the Office of Public Works a few years ago, at the request of a local community group, who wished to improve the visual appearance of the area. Since then the trees and shrubs have taken root and matured and the whole area has been considerably upgraded. I understand that the grass is cut on a regular basis by the Office of Public Works.
Inquiries to the gardaí at Mountjoy Station indicate that no incidents of assaults or muggings along the towpath have been reported to them in the recent past.
In the circumstances there does not appear to be any reason at present to trim or cut down the trees and shrubs which have been planted there. The Office of Public Works will, of course, ensure that they are properly maintained in the course of their ongoing maintenance in the area.
