Fianna Fáil Dublin representatives meet Assistant Garda Commissioner to discuss anti-social behaviour issues in the city
Published on: 24 July 2024
Following a comprehensive survey conducted by Dublin members of the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party, startling findings have emerged regarding the prevalence of anti-social behaviour across Dublin.
In response to these significant concerns, the Dublin representatives met this evening with Assistant Garda Commissioner Angela Willis to deliberate on the survey results and discuss actionable solutions.
The survey, which took in the views of almost 1500 people, found that almost 90% of respondents supported Fianna Fáil's call for a 24 hour, 7 day a week criminal District court in Dublin to ensure offenders could be brought immediately before the District court.
The survey further disclosed that over 65% of respondents had personally witnessed anti-social behaviour in the city centre, and over 90% believed that such behaviour has worsened over the past decade.
In response to these alarming figures and recent attacks in the city, the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party recently passed a motion advocating for the following actions:
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Dedicated community Gardaí deployed on a Small Area Policing basis
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Dedicated Gardaí deployed to public transport
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24/7 Criminal District Court
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Targeted approach from Gardaí, DCC Estate Management, Area Management and Justice Diversion Programmes to achieve a zero tolerance of drug dealing, anti-social and criminal behaviour in public spaces and residential complexes
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Minimum 60 minutes foot or pedal bike patrols by Gardaí on every shift
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Proactive monitoring and enforcement of bail conditions for those awaiting trial
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Community service and restorative justice for those convicted
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Review of location and hours of operation of Garda stations in Dublin with a view to planning for additional Garda stations to serve growing areas of population.
Fianna Fáil Senator in Dublin Central, Mary Fitzpatrick said, "The results of our survey are both eye-opening and deeply concerning. It is clear that anti-social behaviour is a pervasive issue that demands immediate and decisive action.
“Our meeting with Assistant Commissioner Willis was a productive, open dialogue with our discussion focusing on collaborative strategies to enhance policing efforts and how to best improve the judicial process to better serve the needs of the public.
“Anti-social behaviour not only affects the quality of life for Dubliners but also erodes the sense of community and safety that is essential for our city’s well-being. My party colleagues and I in Fianna Fáil are committed to working closely with law enforcement to implement practical measures that will have a lasting positive impact on our communities.''
Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Justice Jim O’Callaghan stressed the urgency of strengthening An Garda Síochána through improved recruitment and retention strategies.
"Our survey highlights a serious issue that demands immediate attention,’’ he said. “To build stronger and safer communities, we must focus on the recruitment and retention of Gardaí.''
Deputy O’Callaghan, who successfully campaigned to raise the entry age limit of 35, elaborated on the need for a diverse and experienced force, "By removing arbitrary age barriers and embracing diversity, we are creating a stronger, more resilient force capable of addressing the complex challenges of modern society. The experience and life skills of older recruits can greatly enhance our policing efforts.
"The Gardaí play a crucial role in protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities. Without a strong Garda presence, we risk descending into chaos. Every effort should be made to recruit and retain dedicated officers. This includes offering better support, training, and incentives to ensure we maintain a robust force."
Senator Fitzpatrick concluded by saying that the Dublin members of the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party are dedicated to continuing this dialogue and working towards tangible outcomes that will address the concerns raised.
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