I propose to take Questions Nos. 4 and 65 together.
Local authorities have a range of statutory powers available to them under housing legislation in relation to the management of their dwellings. It is the responsibility of each authority, as part of its housing management operations, to take the steps it considers necessary to deal with tenants involved in anti-social behaviour.
Dwellings are let by housing authorities subject to the terms of letting agreements drawn up by the authorities in accordance with the Housing Regulations, 1980. The agreements must, under article 83 of the regulations, include a condition that a tenant shall not cause any nuisance or be guilty of, or permit, any conduct likely to cause annoyance or disturbance to neighbours. Adequate legal powers are available to the authorities to take action where there is a breach of a letting agreement.
Legislation, which is kept under review in consultation with local authorities, is only part of the solution to anti-social behaviour. Equally important is the management of their estates by local authorities. That is why a range of initiatives and incentives have been introduced by my Department to assist them to improve their performance in this crucial area.
While good estate management practices by local authorities have an important role to play in overcoming anti-social behaviour in housing estates, including drug-related issues, incidents of this nature are primarily a matter for the Garda.