Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 October 2015
191. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding an estate (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36860/15]
View answerI have brought the Deputy's concerns in relation to the area in question to the attention of the Garda authorities and I am informed that local Garda management are closely monitoring the incidence of burglary in the area in question and have put in place targeted proactive measures which focus patrols on the most vulnerable areas. The detail of the specific policing measures to be taken in this regard are, of course, a matter for the Garda authorities.
An Garda Síochána is responding to the incidence of burglary in the Dublin area through Operation Acer, which is in force throughout the Dublin Metropolitan Region. This includes a particular focus on identifying and targeting criminal groups involved in this criminality. Burglary Response Units attached to each Division, including DMR North, take the lead in Operation Acer and are assisted by other units as required. At national level, Garda operations targeting burglary are all coordinated under Operation Fiacla, using an intelligence and analysis-led approach.
As the Deputy will be aware I am implementing a robust strategy to confront those involved in burglary crimes, including through enhanced legislative measures and very significant increases in Garda resources. These measures, which include 550 new Garda recruits in 2015 and a further 600 recruits next year, underline the Government's commitment to providing people with the reassurance that comes from a visible and determined police force.
With the benefit of the very significant allocations which the Government is making for Garda resources, I am working closely with the Commissioner to finalise details of an enhanced operational response to burglaries and related crimes. All of these measures represent an investment in the safety of our communities and underscore the Government's determination to ensure that those on the frontline in tackling crime, including burglary, have the capacity to do so effectively.
