Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2004
474 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to overcome the problems being encountered by residents in an area (details supplied) in County Kildare; if he will appoint extra gardaí to assist with the problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17149/04]
View answer475 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on public order offences in an area (details supplied) in County Kildare; the plans his Department has to overcome such problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17150/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 474 and 475 together.
I have made enquiries with the Garda authorities in relation to public order offences in the areas in question. I am informed by the Garda authorities that in the years 2002 and 2003, there were a total of 14 public order offences committed in the areas concerned and eight convictions for public order offences. I am further informed that in the areas concerned, there has been no notable increase in public order incidents. I am informed that one of the persons referred to by the Deputy has been visited by the local Garda superintendent and the incident referred to discussed with him. I understand the second person referred to is visited regularly by local gardaí and that the area around his residence is frequently patrolled.
I am assured by local Garda management that they are satisfied that the current Garda strength in the areas concerned is adequate to meet present policing needs. However, the situation will be kept under review in the overall context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country.
