Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 July 2023
548. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice if she has considered a core budget to fund innovative projects for the current initiatives in Dublin 17; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35413/23]
View answerUnder Justice Plan 2021, my Department committed to supporting and working with Dublin City Council (DCC) to ensure the implementation of the report on Darndale, Belcamp and Moatview, on which DCC leads. My Department attends meetings of the implementation group and responds to any justice related issues as they arise.
As the Deputy is aware, DCC commissioned this report in response to the escalating levels of violence in these areas of north Dublin in 2019 and 2020. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the area’s assets, services, and significant levels of State supports as well as its inherent challenges.
The Darndale Implementation Oversight Group (DIOG) was established in February 2021 and is meeting on a monthly basis, chaired by former Assistant Garda Commissioner Jack Nolan. The importance which is being placed on the implementation of the report by An Garda Síochána is demonstrated by the presence of the local Chief Superintendent, Superintendent and Inspector, all of whom sit on the group and they deal with any Garda operational matters that arise.
As well as important recommendations related to crime prevention and dismantling gangs, two key recommendations include the need to strengthen community participation and leadership, and the need for more collaboration in relation to delivery of state services. This closely aligns to work by my Department to develop a new community safety policy in line with the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland.
The Deputy will also be aware that my Department will be providing funding to community safety projects through the Local Community Safety Partnerships (LCSPs). These innovative projects are being trialled in three locations; Dublin's North Inner City, Waterford and Longford, with a view to rolling these projects out nationwide next year. Funding is also available from my Department through the Community Safety Innovation Fund, the goal of which is to support local projects aimed at improving community safety, reduce the risk of crime, reduce reoffending and diverting vulnerable individuals from criminal behaviour.
