Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2006
165 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of murders in which firearms were used since the beginning of 2006; his views on the continuing level of gun murders, many of which are gang-related; the steps he is taking to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30614/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Garda authorities that there have been 16 murders with firearms since the beginning of this year to 30 September.
All killings regardless of the circumstances involved are the subject of a rigorous investigation by the Garda authorities. I am informed that Garda management analyses available intelligence and selects targets involved in serious criminal activity, particularly gun-related crime. Intelligence-led operations against targets are used by Garda management to combat this type of criminal activity on an ongoing basis. This involves the strategic deployment of both local and specialised Garda operation units to counter such activities.
Operation Anvil has proved to be very successful in disrupting the criminal activities of a number of key criminal gangs. It has resulted in a number of high-profile arrests and the acquisition of intelligence on the movements of criminals. Notable improvements have been achieved in recorded crime in the target crime areas under the operation. An example of a recent success is the operation carried out in the Moyross area last week, in which four arrests were made and four firearms (two rifles and two sawn off shotguns) and a quantity of ammunition were seized.
In addition to the introduction of Operation Anvil, the Commissioner in November 2005 augmented the Organised Crime Unit at the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation with an additional 55 Garda members to address the problem of criminal gang activity. Enforcement by the Unit has resulted in further firearms being seized and a number of persons arrested, thereby disrupting their criminal activities.
New mandatory sentences of up to 10 years for possession of firearms with intent to endanger life and other related offences are contained in the Criminal Justice Act, 2006 and are due to be commenced with effect from the beginning of November this year.
This integrated approach adopts best practice in implementing a co-ordinated use of Garda resources and using available criminal legislation to its fullest extent. Operations are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure their effectiveness. The Deputy will be aware that I have appointed Mr Michael Mellett to conduct an independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death in Mountjoy and to make appropriate recommendations. I await his report.
