Gino Kenny
Ceist:28. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Justice if he has plans to discuss the far right with the Garda Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25315/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 25 May 2023
Ceisteanna (28, 35)
Gino Kenny
Ceist:35. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Justice his views on the policing of far-right protests and aggression against refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25313/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 35 together.
I recently met with the Commissioner to discuss the incidents where tents belonging to refugees in Dublin City Centre were set on fire. I want to be perfectly clear that these scenes are totally unacceptable and will be fully investigated by An Garda Síochána.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for operational policing matters, including public order.
There have been a number of protests on the topic of immigration recently and there is a small minority whose intentions are to create division and who are engaging in intimidation rather than legitimate protest at these events. I have been assured that the policing approach to protests is predicated on keeping people safe, preventing any anti-social and criminal behaviour and traffic management, where appropriate.
Gardaí deploy an increased presence where they deem it necessary and I know that members from An Garda Síochána and Dublin Fire Brigade took control of the situation which unfolded in Dublin earlier this month.
Having spoken directly with the Garda Commissioner, I am confident that a policing plan is in place and the Commissioner has assured me that he has the operational integrity and the resources to police the situation.
It is important to say that over the past year, so many communities across Ireland have demonstrated great solidarity to those who come here. While people have the right to protest and of course that right must be respected, people do not have the right to do this in a way that causes others to fear for their safety or in a way that threatens public order.