Frances Fitzgerald
Question:1076 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the developments in the initiative to combat street violence in the Dublin area. [2339/01]
Written Answers. - Dublin Street Violence.
I am informed by Garda authorities that Operation Oíche began in the Dublin metropolitan region on 9 October, 2000. I understand that as part of this operation each divisional officer compiled an operational plan which incorporated all initiatives and operations to combat public order and illicit drug use. I am also informed that additional plans to focus on public intoxication and underage drinking were also included. The Garda authorities consider the operation to have been highly successful to date. Since its introduction, there has been a more visible Garda presence on the streets, particularly at the closing times of licensed premises and night clubs and the gardaí continue to visit licensed premises to impress an even greater awareness on the licensees of their responsibilities.
I am further informed that the new Dublin Corporation bye-laws prohibiting the consumption of intoxicating liquor on public streets have proven very effective. I am assured by the Garda authorities that the gardaí are fully focused on all the objectives of Operation Oíche and that since the initiative began, over 7,500 offences have been detected. I also understand that Operation Oíche has received favourable comments from both the general public and the business community.