Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 February 2014
413. Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide a report on the success of Operation Kerbside over the past three years in combating the problem of prostitution in an area (details supplied). [6181/14]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities that Operation Kerb has been in operation in the Bridewell Garda Sub-District since November 2010. The operation primarily focuses on the diversion of women who are engaged in street based prostitution in the area referred to and the prosecution of persons who solicit for the purpose of prostitution. An Garda Síochána engage as appropriate with other agencies in diverting women engaged in such activity. The operation has resulted in 35 searches and 161 arrests or cautions under sections 7 and 8 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1993 resulting in 94 charges and summonses. I am further advised that operation has had a significant impact on the prevalence of prostitution in the area and has received positive feedback from local residents.
