I am informed by the Garda authorities that the initiative referred to by the Deputy was introduced in January, 2010 by the Assistant Commissioner, Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) in response to an increase in the number of burglary incidents recorded across the Garda Divisions comprising the DMR.
The main objective of this initiative is primarily, but not exclusively, to target those suspected of committing burglaries and the investigation and detection of such incidents, with particular emphasis in the DMR Northern, Southern and Western Garda Divisions.
An Inspector is tasked with the day-to-day running of the initiative which includes monitoring crime trends and coordinating resources. Four Sergeants and fourteen Gardaí have been allocated to the initiative from within the DMR.
I am also informed that since the initiative was put in place 45 persons have been arrested for burglary and other theft related offences, 40 of whom have been charged with related offences. Investigations are ongoing in respect of the remaining persons and, on completion, investigation files will be submitted to the Law Officers.
This initiative is continuing and is being closely monitored by senior Garda management.