500 additional policing hours will help tackle anti-social behaviour in Dublin City Centre – Higgins

500 additional policing hours as part of a new garda operation in our capital city will ensure that anti-social behaviour is minimised in our communities, according to a Fine Gael TD.

Dublin Mid West Deputy Emer Higgins said anti-social behaviour, public order and assaults are being targeted through increased visible policing at key locations under the newly-unveiled Operation Citizen.

Deputy Higgins said: “High visibility policing is known to have a positive impact, as a Garda presence on our streets makes people feel safer and acts as a deterrent for people who might engage in anti-social behaviour and criminal activity.

“Figures have shown there has been a decrease in most crimes during the pandemic, with public order offences down by 10 per cent in the first half of 2021 compared to 2020. This could be due to the impact of Covid restrictions as more people were required to stay at home.

“Nevertheless, there have been worrying incidents that have led to concern . We have all seen videos on social media of anti-social behaviour and violence on streets and parks in Dublin City.

“Operation Citizen, which commenced last month, has seen in excess of 100 Gardaí patrolling Dublin City Centre each weekend evening.

“Daily there are in excess of 20 Gardaí on foot and mountain bike patrols, supported by 24 mobile patrol members from the four central Garda stations

“Eight Gardaí are now full time assigned to specifically patrol River Liffey Boardwalk, Quays and environs every day from 4pm – 4am.

“The Garda National Public Order Unit (25 personnel on mobile patrols), Garda Mounted Unit and Garda Dog Unit are also providing additional support.

“All in all, the additional resourcing amounts to over 500 additional hours policing each week in Dublin City Centre alone.

“I have also been informed that dedicated operations and local policing plans are also in place in towns and cities across the country.

“I know the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and the Government is aware of the negative impact anti-social behaviour has our communities and is constantly working with An Garda Siochana and resident and community stakeholders to tackle the problem.

“It is so important that people feel safe in Dublin, whether they live here, work here or own a business, or are visiting our wonderful capital city,” Deputy Higgins said.