Vol. 547 No. 1
997 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he intends to take to stop the destruction of recreational facilities at Quarryvale Park, Dublin 22 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2201/02]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the problem involves stolen cars being driven onto football pitches, where they are abandoned and burnt out, leaving the pitches unplayable.
I am also informed that on 20 November 2001, a meeting was held in Ronanstown Garda station attended by gardaí and representatives of Quarryvale Football Club, Quarryvale Residents Association, Quarryvale Co-op and South Dublin County Council. As a result of this meeting, a co-ordinated action plan was devised involving the deployment of the Ronanstown Garda station public order van in the Quarryvale area, with specific emphasis on joyriding and public order offences in Quarryvale Park; and a commitment from South Dublin County Council to construct 17 ramps in the area and a metre-high perimeter wall around the park. This work is near completion.
I am further informed that a core group of offenders has been identified and that, to date, eight youths have been arrested and are being prosecuted for certain offences.
Quarryvale Park continues to receive a high level of policing and beginning on 28 January 2002, the services of Operation Assist are being utilised for a three-week period, to involve increased policing with the assistance of the Garda air support unit, Garda mounted unit and Garda dog unit.
Finally, I am assured by the Garda authorities that the situation will continue to be monitored and that any problems identified will be addressed.
