Frances Fitzgerald
Ceist:925 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of unprovoked attacks reported to the Garda in the Dublin area in the year 2000 to date. [20413/00]
Written Answers. - Crime Levels.
Frances Fitzgerald
Ceist:934 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the initiatives taken to deal with assaults on the streets in the Dublin area and countrywide. [20443/00]
It is proposed to take Questions Nos. 925 and 934 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that each chief superintendent in the Dublin Metropolitan region is undertaking a series of initiatives under the umbrella name "Operation Oíche". These initiatives tackle street crime, drunkenness and public order problems generally. The locations of recurring incidents are receiving particular attention, with an emphasis on high visibility patrolling. Special resource units and unmarked crime task force units are also used to the full. I am also informed by the Garda Commissioner that the gardaí have extended "Operation Oíche", to tackle violence and public disorder in the streets of large towns and cities throughout the country.
I also understand that "Pinch Point" locations in the city have been selected for intensive patrolling involving use of the Garda mounted unit, Garda drug unit and garda air support unit. Elsewhere, public order units are deployed to augment regular resources at appropriate times and locations.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that they are fully committed to participation in the Garda youth diversion projects, which I am in the process of greatly expanding in accordance with the National Development Plan 2000-2006. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, these projects are designed to challenge the criminal and anti-social attitudes of the young people engaged in such behaviour. I also understand that close liaison is maintained with local authorities in relation to estate management to ensure a combined response to anti social behaviour.
In addition to the proactive policing measures, An Garda Síochána are engaged in a programme of consultation with publicans, hoteliers, off-licenses, night club owners etc. with a view to ensuring full legislative compliance with the Intoxicating Liquor Acts, Licensing (Combating of Drugs) Act, and other relevant legislation.
I have asked the Garda authorities for a report on the statistics the Deputy requested and I will write to her when it comes to hand.
Frances Fitzgerald
Ceist:926 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of public order offences in the Dublin area prosecuted in the years 1998, 1999 and to date in 2000. [20414/00]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of prosecutions taken under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994, in the Dublin metropolitan region for the years 1998, 1999 and 2000 to date are as shown on the following table:
|
1998 |
1999 |
2000 to date |
|
11,740 |
12,992 |
9,682 |