Vol. 530 No. 1
157 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to combat joyriding in the Coolock district, Dublin 5; if he will give details of operation steering wheel and other Garda diversion programmes-projects in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3284/01]
Joyriding is a complex problem which, while requiring significant inputs from the criminal justice system, can be tackled meaningfully and to lasting effect only through a multi-faceted and multi-agency response involving both the community and relevant statutory bodies. In relation to legislative matters, I am informed by the Garda authorities that they have adequate powers under existing legislation to deal with situations where persons use or take possession of mechanically propelled vehicles without the consent of the owner. I am further informed by the Garda Síochána that joyriding in the Coolock Garda sub-district is primarily a problem within the Darndale, Belcamp and Moatview areas. Operation Steering Wheel is a local response and comprises uniform, foot and mobile patrols targeting specific locations on a nightly basis. Local Garda management has also established a Garda resource unit to conduct patrols on a continuous basis and target known joyriders. The initiative has resulted in a 50% decrease in incidents of joyriding throughout the Coolock sub-district.
I am also informed by the Garda authorities that Operation Oíche has resulted in an increased Garda presence in the area, which has led to a decrease in the number of incidents of joyriding and anti-social behaviour. In addition, my Department funds the WOODALE Garda youth diversion project, the catchment area of which incorporates those areas most affected by joyriding in the Coolock sub-district. The project aims to divert young persons from becoming further involved in anti-social and/or criminal activity through the provision of a range of suitable activities which promote personal development and improve educational and employment prospects. In October 2000, under the National Development Plan 2000-06, I launched a second Garda youth diversion project to operate in the Kilmore area.
The Deputy will be aware that a task force on joyriding in the Priorswood area has also been established and includes representatives of Dublin Corporation, the Garda Síochána and various community and residents' associations. As a first step in developing a strategy to combat the problem, the task force commissioned a comprehensive research work, the report of which I officially launched yesterday. I now hope that the relevant agencies will engage with the local community to further develop and implement the strategic plan.
