Patrick Costello
Ceist:
121. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice for an update in relation to the operation of the neighbourhood watch schemes, particularly in DMR south, south central and west; the current status of each neighbourhood watch scheme in the aforementioned divisions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23137/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra
It has not been possible to collate and examine all the information requested by the Deputy in the time available. I will write to the Deputy directly once the information is to hand.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51.
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 121 of 22 May 2024 when you sought: “An update in relation to the operation of the neighbourhood watch schemes, particularly in DMR South, South Central and West; the current status of each neighbourhood watch scheme in the aforementioned divisions.”
As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including the operation of the Neighbourhood Watch Schemes. As Minister, I have no role in these matters, nor can I direct the Commissioner regarding them.
The Government is committed to providing An Garda Síochána with the resources they need to deliver on their mission of Keeping People Safe and that is reflected in the record budget allocation of over €2.35 billion to An Garda Síochána in 2024.
As you will recall, I had sought the information you requested from the Garda authorities and undertook to contact you again once the information was to hand.
I am informed that the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) have a high number of Neighbourhood Watch Schemes in place across the Division. There are multiple schemes in place in the DMR South Central, mainly in the Kilmainham area within the Kevin Street Community Engagement Area. I am further informed that there are no neighbourhood watch schemes in the Pearse Street or Donnybrook Community Engagement Areas.
With respect to the DMR West Division, I understand that a number of Neighbourhood Watch schemes are currently being established in Finglas and that there are various schemes and community groups in place in Clondalkin District. There are also several schemes active in the Ronanstown and Lucan sub-districts.
As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, while the above Neighbourhood Watch Schemes are in place some are less active than others.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that it is necessary for over 80% of residents to participate in order to ensure that a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme can be established in any area. An Garda Síochána have advised that they have noticed a trend that increasing groups of residents are establishing their own WhatsApp groups and sharing information through WhatsApp rather than setting up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.
I am assured that Community Policing within all Divisions in the DMR Region continue to engage with a variety of groups on a regular basis in order to encourage continuous engagement with members of the community and address issues promptly.
I hope this information is of assistance.
