Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 6

Written Answers. - Crime Reports.

Jim Higgins

Question:

356 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda has received reports in relation to attacks involving knives on people in the Mulhuddart area, including Mulhuddart cemetery; the number of reports lodged in respect of these attacks; and the number of people questioned or charged in this regard. [6969/99]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that gardaí have not received any reports of attacks involving knives in the Mulhuddart area to date in 1999.

I understand, however, that gardaí have received complaints concerning youths congregating in the vicinity of Mulhuddart cemetery. A number of arrests have been made under the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994. I also understand that on 2 February 1999 a report was received by gardaí concerning an altercation between a man and a number of youths, in the course of which the window of the man's car was broken. No arrests have been made in relation to this incident and the Garda are continuing their inquiries.

I am further informed that Fingal County Council has agreed to open the carpark during the day, so that people visiting the cemetery will not have to park their cars on the road. The county council have also undertaken to inform gardaí of burials, so that suitable attention can be paid to the location. Garda patrols in the area have been increased, and the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994, will be enforced where necessary. I am assured by the Garda authorities that the area will continue to receive the appropriate Garda attention.