Mark Ward
Question:582. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Justice if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding Operation Tombola; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46664/21]
View answerTuesday, 28 September 2021
Questions (582)
Written answers
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that on the 26 August, 2021, “Operation Tombola” was initiated in the DMR in all Divisions and will remain in place in the lead up to and over the Halloween period.
The Deputy will wish to be aware that proactive policing initiatives within the DMR under ‘Operation Tombola’ include but are not limited to the following actions:
- Increased patrolling (overt and covert) of areas of interest, including but not limited to usual locations where young people congregate as well as areas where bonfire materials are likely to be stockpiled.
- High visibility patrols of public transport on Dublin Bus, LUAS and Dart services in the lead up to and on Halloween to prevent and detect incidents of anti-social behaviour.
- Engagement with schools and youth services throughout the region with talks designed and focused on engaging with those who may participate in sale/supply and use of fireworks.
- Proactive monitoring of open source media to identify the location where individuals are operating the sale and supply of fireworks.
- Identifying the scene(s) of unsupervised and unplanned bonfire locations and liaising with local authorities to have bonfire material removed in advance of Halloween
- Allocation of designated Garda personnel to monitor overt CCTV to ensure anti-social issues are effectively dealt with in a timely manner.
- Proactive engagement by liquor licensing inspectors with managers and business owners, reminding the business community of their responsibilities under Liquor Licensing Legislation.
- Utilisation and deployment of Crime Prevention Officers (CPO) in the DMR to impart, educate and inform business owners / building site managers, etc. on how best secure combustible material (tyres, pallets etc.) in their possession in the lead up to Halloween.
- Policing the public consumption of alcohol and underage minors drinking.