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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 5 Nov 2002

Vol. 556 No. 3

Written Answers. - Garda Investigations.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

639 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request a report from the Garda authorities regarding the action taken to respond to residents' concerns regarding anti-social activities by gangs of youths congregating late at night at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [20477/02]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the location in question is included in the neighbourhood watch scheme for sector 4, community policing, Mountjoy Garda station. The anti-social behaviour at the above address was brought to the attention of Mountjoy gardaí some time ago.

I am further informed that following on from this the community policing sergeant met with approximately 15 concerned residents at a meeting chaired by the residents area co-ordinator. At this meeting issues were discussed and a two month timeframe was set up with a view to eliminating this problem. During that period various initiatives were put into place by community police at Mountjoy. Groups of youths were found on 11 occasions and on each occasion they were moved on. It was noted that on five occasions these groups were from outside the area. At the end of the two month period the problems had considerably reduced.

Finally, I am informed that the community sergeant again met with the residents of the area who expressed their satisfaction and gratitude to the gardaí for their co-operation in dealing with their complaints and the area continues to be monitored by the gardaí in Mountjoy.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

640 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request a report from the Garda authorities on the action they have taken regarding the serious anti-social activities at a premises (details supplied) in Dublin 7 which is causing grave concern to adjoining residents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20478/02]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the location in question is covered by the neighbourhood watch scheme for sector 1, community policing, Mountjoy Garda station. The anti-social behaviour at the above address was brought to the attention of Mountjoy gardaí some months ago.

I am further informed that community gardaí and regular uniform members have concentrated on alleviating these complaints, and that they have responded promptly to calls in relation to youths congregating on the steps outside of that address. I am also aware that names and addresses have been taken and a number of youths, who are not residing at this address, have been moved on under section 8 of the Public Order Act, 1994. Members have also issued Corporation by-law notices and alcoholic drink has been seized. I understand that some residents at this location have been cautioned in relation to their behaviour.
Finally, I am informed that the community gardaí for the area have reported a considerable reduction in both complaints and incidents over the past two months and are continuing to monitor the situation.

John Deasy

Ceist:

641 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason it takes so long for blood tests to be carried out on the perpetrators of an attack on a member of An Garda Síochána; if he can compel people to have these tests carried out immediately in the interests of health and safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20541/02]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence) Act, 1990 allows for the taking of a blood sample by consent where a person is in custody under section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act, 1939 or section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. I am further informed that there is no legislation which compels a perpetrator to supply a blood sample.

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