Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2003

Vol. 571 No. 1

Written Answers. - Crime Prevention.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

1130 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will liaise closely with the Garda to implement a security and safety strategy to prevent attacks and robberies at the off-licence on Philipsburgh Avenue, Dublin 3; and the position regarding the issues. [19932/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that six robberies have been recorded at the premises in question since January 2000. One of these has been detected and the culprit is currently serving a four year prison sentence. The remaining robberies are being actively investigated by the Garda. On 18 July 2003 gardaí arrested a youth outside the off-licence and this youth is currently before the courts.

I have been further informed that gardaí have carried out a security survey of this premises and have given advice in relation to security improvements. The area surrounding the location of the off-licence is patrolled daily by both uniformed and plain clothes gardaí. In addition, these patrols are augmented by the divisional task force and traffic units as well as the local resource unit.