I am informed by the Garda authorities that the situation concerning the protest encampment referred to had been monitored by An Garda Síochána for some time. The group in question were encamped on private property and there had been ongoing liaison between An Garda Síochána, the group in question, the Central Bank and other interested parties. Policing of the protest was of course at all times an operational matter for An Garda Síochána.
I am further informed that An Garda Síochána recently requested the protesters to leave the encampment, particularly in the light of health and safety and public safety issues arising at the site. A positive response was not received to this request. Against this background, this morning the Gardaí removed the encampment. While I have no plans at present for changes in the relevant legislation, it is a matter which I will keep under review.