Paul Donnelly
Ceist:
242. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice if she will provide an update in relation to the operation of the neighbourhood watch scheme, particularly in DMR north and DMR north central; the current status of each neighbourhood watch scheme in the aforementioned divisions. [26091/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. Unfortunately the information was not received on time. I will contact the Deputy directly once the information is available.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51.
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 242 of 18 June 2024 where you sought: “An update in relation to the operation of the neighbourhood watch scheme, particularly in DMR north and DMR north central; the current status of each neighbourhood watch scheme in the aforementioned divisions.”
As you 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 North Central Division and discussions/registrations are ongoing in relation to further areas. I am advised North Wall and East Wall neighbourhood watch schemes meet with Community Police Gardaí attached to this area on a monthly basis.
There are also several business watch schemes in place and these schemes meet monthly where Gardaí attend and address any ongoing issues.
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 understand there are a substantial number of Neighbourhood Watch Schemes currently in place in the DMR North Division. 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.
