Vol. 465 No. 6
228 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice if she will instruct the Garda Commissioner to assist local authorities in evicting squatters in local authority dwellings who are engaged in serious anti-social behaviour to the detriment of ordinary tenants in order to avoid the delays associated with relying on the Housing Act, 1966; and whether she will consider amending the provisions of the Prohibition of Forcible Entry and Occupation Act, 1971, in this regard. [10129/96]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that they will investigate any complaints of unlawful occupation or unlawful activity made to them. On completion of the investigation, a decision will be made as to whether the evidence warrants the submission of a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions. It should be noted that this process is separate and distinct from assisting in the enforcement of a civil right to possession of property.
I have no plans to amend the Prohibition of Forcible Entry and Occupation Act, 1971.
