Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2015
534. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to set up a task force to deal with anti-social behaviour in housing estates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21454/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that the policing response to anti-social behaviour is a matter for the Garda authorities in the first instance. In this regard, An Garda Síochána continues to implement a range of strategies based on existing legislation and enhancing partnerships with local communities.
A range of strong legislative provisions are available to an An Garda Síochána to combat anti-social behaviour, including provisions under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Acts, the Criminal Damage Act and the Intoxicating Liquor Acts. There are also the incremental provisions contained in the Criminal Justice Act 2006 which provide for warnings and civil proceedings in relation to anti-social behaviour by adults and Part 13 of the Act which provide for warnings, good behaviour contracts and civil proceedings in relation to anti-social behaviour by children.
An Garda Síochána places great emphasis on the importance of the partnership between local Gardaí and the community and the Garda National Model of Community Policing plays a key part in responding to crime by taking into account and responding to local conditions and needs. Within this framework, An Garda Síochána continues to tackle local crime issues including public disorder and anti-social behaviour by working with communities and business groups, to reduce crime and enhance community safety. This approach includes a strong focus on quality of life issues and collaboration with local authorities to help address the causes of anti-social behaviour and related criminality. I am advised that there is a community policing team in each Garda District.
Insofar as the question of establishing additional task forces or other structures are concerned, I would point the Deputy to the existing structures, both formal and informal, for local cooperation and problem solving in relation to crime and community safety issues. In particular, the Joint Policing Committees (JPCs) provide a forum for the development of strategic responses on issues such as anti-social behaviour, in cooperation with the local authority and the elected members for the area as well as community representatives. New guidelines published in August last year specifically require JPCs to take a strategic and coordinated approach in developing their plans to address issues of local concern, including issues along the lines referred to by the Deputy.
