Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 January 2025
1035. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Justice for an update on the proposal contained within the draft Programme for Government to ‘consider’ a ban on protests outside private homes; the factors that will be used to determine the decision; to outline the timeline for decision; if there are plans to introduce new legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1736/25]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the incoming Government has set the priorities in the draft Programme for Government. Work to progress these commitments will commence on the appointment of the new Government. The Deputy will appreciate that, as a result, timelines or operational details on policy proposals are not yet available until work programmes are agreed.
The right to protest is enshrined in the Constitution and in law. It is the responsibility of everyone who wishes to engage in protest to do so in a peaceful manner and never in a way that infringes on the safety and rights of others.
The Garda authorities are responsible for monitoring protests, including the maintenance of public order. I am informed by Garda management that their approach to policing protests is predicated on keeping people safe, preventing anti-social and criminal behaviour, and the management of traffic.
In response to these demands, Gardaí may deploy an increased presence or other physical measures, as deemed operationally necessary.
The safety of those who work in our public services, including Gardaí, local authority employees, public representatives and our staff, and indeed any member of the public, is of the utmost importance. An Gardaí Síochána will protect the public and uphold the law.
