Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 December 2016
97. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if An Garda Síochána has a specific operation to target alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour in Dublin city centre over the Christmas and new year period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38748/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda authorities are responsible for policing strategies in relation to the matters referred to. In this regard, I am assured by the Garda Commissioner that the allocation of resources is continually monitored and reviewed, taking into account all relevant factors including crime trends, demographics, and security assessments relating to the area in question with a view to making the best possible use of Garda resources.
I have been advised by the Garda authorities that a Policing Plan has been put in place in Dublin City Centre to support public safety and deal with risks of public disorder and other anti-social behaviour during the festive period. The aims and objectives of the Policing Plan include:
- Ensuring a high-visibility policing presence
- Reducing instances of assaults and public disorder
- Targeting criminals by intelligence-led policing and deployment of plain-clothes personnel to prevent, detect and disrupt criminality
- Maintaining reassurance to the commercial community through a high-visibility presence in the City Centre and by providing security and crime prevention advice to businesses
- Dealing with persons who may use this period to engage in unlawful collections in the city centre and where they may target elderly persons in residential areas.
I might add that there is a range of strong legislative provisions available to An Garda Síochána to combat anti-social behaviour, including provisions under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Acts, the Criminal Damage Act and the Intoxicating Liquor Acts. The powers available to Gardaí support them in addressing anti-social behaviours, including the prevention of nuisance or annoyance to others and forestalling damage to property or a breach of the peace.
An Garda Síochána is committed to tackling public disorder and anti-social behaviour by working with communities to reduce this type of behaviour and enhance community safety. The Garda approach includes a strong focus on quality of life issues and collaboration with local authorities, businesses (in particular the night time economy) and other stakeholders to help address the causes of anti-social behaviour, including in relation to the misuse of alcohol.
