Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 31 Oct 1996

Vol. 470 No. 8

Written Answers. - Anti-Social Behaviour.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

85 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht if his attention has been drawn to the problem of anti-social behaviour, including under-age drinking and drug abuse, on the banks of the Royal Canal between Binns Bridge and Cross Guns Bridge in Dublin 9; if his attention has further been drawn to the concern which such behaviour is causing to local residents; and if he will consider designating this area and other areas as alcohol and drug-free zones. [20170/96]

Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (Mr. M. Higgins)

I am aware of the extent of the problem of anti-social behaviour, including under age drinking and drug abuse, in some areas of Dublin city. Certainly, alcohol and other drug abuse is a problem on certain stretches of the canals which are open for public amenity use. Individuals engaging in substance abuse on canal property present a danger to themselves with perhaps the risk of drowning, and they may also cause a nuisance or threat to local residents, walkers and other canal users. However, since the Waterways Service does not have the resources to provide full-time patrols on canal property, the assistance of the Garda is sought whenever a public order problem is reported.

The Garda Síochána have the full co-operation of the Waterways Service of my Department in carrying out the full and effective exercise of their duties and functions. I would ask members of the public to report any public order disturbance on canal property to the Garda in the first instance.