Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2016
307. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the powers the Military Police have on areas of the Curragh, County Kildare, where illegal camping may occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14093/16]
View answerAs you may be aware the management and protection of the Curragh Plains, one of the most open and accessible areas in the Country, is an ongoing process which is the responsibility of my Department.
I am fully aware of the ongoing problems of illegal camping and the misuse of the Curragh Plains. My Officials report all incidents of illegal encampments on the Curragh Plains to An Garda Síochána as soon as they are made aware of them. In the first four months of this year my Department has already spent approximately €99,744 on the maintenance of the Curragh Plains which includes the clean up operations following illegal camping and dumping.
Under Section 19C of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, as inserted by the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002, it is an offence for a person to enter on and occupy property without the consent of the owner. Under the provisions of the Act An Garda Síochána have the power, without warrant, to arrest a person who fails to leave when requested and seize anything they bring onto the property in question. Penalties for persons found guilty of an offence under this Part of the Act include fines not exceeding €3,000 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding one month or both.
The use of the Curragh lands is addressed in Bye-Laws dating back to 1964. My department is currently seeking legal advice on the interpretation of the provisions of the Bye-Laws.
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that while it can prove difficult to fully prevent illegal camping on the Curragh Plains every effort is being taken to address the situation and protect this valuable amenity.
