John O'Leary
Question:31 Mr. O'Leary asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to prevent vigilante-type killings and punishment beatings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12914/96]
Written Answers. - Vigilante-Type Crime Prevention.
There is no place for vigilantism in dealing with the anti-social or criminal behaviour of others. The commission of crime is not and will never be addressed by means of the criminal activity of other citizens and the Garda will vigorously pursue the perpetrators of vigilante-type crime as they do all other crimes.
With regard to the prevention of vigilantism, Deputies will be aware that the Garda and others are involved in a number of community-based initiatives designed to channel real concerns about the issues which give rise to such activity in a positive and lawful direction. In addition, the Neighbourhood Watch programme and the community policing initiative bring gardaí closer to the communities they serve and provide mechanisms for communities to bring their concerns directly to the attention of the gardaí.