I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Síochána is at present actively involved in a new partnership involving local communities called the Community Policing Forum. This model was decided upon, having considered various different models involving community partnership. It is at present being piloted in the Kevin Street district of the Dublin metropolitan area. The objectives of the Community Policing Forum are: to create dialogue between the Garda Síochána and the local community; to seek the views and opinions of the local community with respect to their concerns on crime and policing; to hold formal meetings of the forum; to provide solutions through dialogue and action to concerns raised within an agreed time frame; and to provide formal feedback through ongoing meetings of the forum. The following agencies are involved in the participation the Garda Síochána, local community, public representatives and local authority (Dublin Corporation). Health board representatives will also be invited to attend, as required.
I am further informed that an independent evaluation is being conducted of the Community Policing Forum. Following an examination of the evaluation report, consideration will be given to replicating this model in other areas should the need be identified.
