Noel Ahern
Question:145 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures being taken to police the recently opened Liffey boardwalk. [16444/01]
Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.
I am informed by Garda authorities that no specific by-laws have been introduced governing the use of the Liffey boardwalk. However, it is a public place within the meaning of the Public Order Act, 1994, and as such is catered for within the policing plan for the city centre. Policing of the boardwalk is specifically covered by Operation Boulevard and a community policing beat. The boardwalk also forms part of normal foot patrols between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 a.m. To date, there have been no major incidents specific to the boardwalk.
I have also been informed that recently a number of complaints were received about begging and undesirables using the boardwalk. The Garda authorities assure me that the Garda acted swiftly and firmly in response to these complaints and will continue to do so in the future.