Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 13 Dec 2001

Vol. 546 No. 5

Written Answers. - Garda Youth Policy.

Dick Spring

Ceist:

45 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress which has been made in implementing the recommendations of the Garda youth policy to deal with violent incidents involving young people, especially when alcohol is involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32104/01]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Commissioner and his senior officers have assessed the implications to that organisation of the Garda youth policy advisory group report and have now prioritised the implementation of its recommendations for inclusion in the Garda policing plans for the year 2002 and beyond. The report contains two recommendations relating specifically to matters within my functional remit, namely, the proof of age scheme and the use of mobile CCTV units.

In the former case, the high level interdepartmental working group established to agree a co- ordinated response to recommendations contained in the interim report on off-licensing concluded that the age card scheme was seen as operating successfully but that efforts to promote awareness and usage of age cards should be intensified. In that context, I have established a review group within my Department to examine, in consultation with the Garda authorities, the current age card scheme and to make appropriate recommendations. I expect that this group will report to me by the end of the year. With regard to the latter recommendation, I am pleased to report that my Department has approved a request received from the Garda authorities for the purchase of a mobile CCTV unit.

The report also recommends the establishment of a regulatory system for fast food outlets, mainly in relation to opening hours and security standards. This matter is framed in the context of legislation to enable the making of local by-laws and, as such, comes within the area of responsibility of the Minister for the Environment and Local Government. However, I am very concerned with the problem of public order and drink-related street violence late at night, and I am, at present, urgently considering new legislative measures in that area which I will bring before Government as soon as possible.