Vol. 563 No. 6
90 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action which was taken by the Garda in relation to the thousands of crimes detected following the first year of Operation Encounter from February 2002 to March 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8605/03]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that since the introduction of Operation Encounter in February 2002 and up to 16 March 2003, preliminary figures indicate that the following crimes have been detected: 9,695 assaults, including 3,139 assaults causing harm or serious harm; 23,163 incidents of threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour; 35,032 incidents of public drunkenness; 10,392 cases of failing to comply with Garda directions; 5,129 cases of disorderly conduct; and 530 cases of sale or supply of alcohol to minors.
I understand that offences detected as a result of Operation Encounter are dealt with in a number of ways, including by criminal prosecution; by cautioning under the provisions of the Children Act 2001; or, in accordance with local authority by-laws, by the issue of notifications to local authorities.
