Vol. 471 No. 8
52 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice the issues, if any, which have been brought to her attention regarding the need to improve policing in the Dublin Metropolitan area; the consideration, if any, she has given in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21719/96]
The detailed allocation of Garda personnel and resources to different areas is a matter for the Garda authorities. They have informed me the policing requirements of the Dublin Metropolitan Area are continually monitored by the assistant commissioner responsible for the area with a view to ensuring that Garda resources are deployed to optimum benefit. The Garda authorities also report that at present they are satisfied that all Garda resources in the Dublin Metropolitan Area are deployed effectively and are sufficient to meet current policing needs.
An example of the ongoing monitoring of Garda policies and resources was the recent announcement by the Garda Commissioner of a new strategy to combat the drugs problem in Dublin city, Operation Dochas, which came into effect on 7 October 1996. This strategy is in operation in all Dublin districts and involves the deployment of in excess of 500 uniformed and plain-clothes gardaí. Uniformed gardaí adopt a high profile through both foot patrols and mobile patrols and work to forge greater links with local communities. This operation has increased uniformed Garda presence on the streets over a 24 hour period and, while the predominant emphasis of the operation is drugs, it also extends to crime generally and all policing matters.
I am also informed by the Garda authorities that other policing issues which are currently being considered include a plan aimed at reducing the incidence of crime, particularly over the Christmas period.
