Vol. 535 No. 3
147 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request a report from the Garda authorities with regard to the concerns of residents of a flats complex (details supplied) in Dublin 7 where vulnerable residents feel under siege at night-time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12622/01]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the issues highlighted by the Deputy were raised at a residents' meeting on 24 April 2001, which was also attended by members of the Garda Síochána and Dublin Corporation. Such inter-agency co-operation, in partnership with the local community, is considered essential to successfully tackling these issues, and much progress has already been made in this regard.
From the perspective of the criminal justice system, a garda sergeant and three members of Garda rank are assigned to the area in question, and they take positive action against persons committing public order offences and other activities which are affecting the quality of life of residents. In particular, I am advised that, in the past three months, four searches under the Misuse of Drugs Act were carried out by community gardaí.
While law enforcement responses targeting specific problems will continue, other positive efforts are being pursued. For example, since 1998, my Department has been funding the MOST Garda youth diversion project in O'Devaney Gardens and Montpellier, which seeks to divert local young persons from becoming involved in criminal and/or anti-social behaviour. Other initiatives, such as the Garda schools programme in St. Gabriel's School, the availability of the Garda community bus for outings, the exchange of information with Dublin Corporation and the assignment of two members of Garda rank to the local summer project for its duration, are promoting positive outcomes.
I can assure the Deputy that the area in question is being kept under review by the Garda Síochána and that it will continue to receive Garda attention.
