9 March 2006

Justice

Security Arrangements for 1916 Parade

Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister:  the steps to be taken by An Garda Síochana for the upcoming 1916 Parade to ensure that we do not experience a repeat of 25 February 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. 

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell):  I am further informed by the Garda Commissioner that a comprehensive operational plan for the policing of this event is being prepared. It will be based on the available intelligence and the experience of Garda personnel in city centre stations, in dealing with parades and protests, in particular the protest surrounding events of Saturday, 25 February.

I am further informed that an assistant commissioner is representing the Commissioner on a high level interagency group to prepare plans for this event. A sub-committee of this group has also been established and the Garda authorities are represented on this group by the chief superintendents, Store Street, Dublin North-Central division and Pearse Street, Dublin South-Central division.

Whatever lessons can be learnt from the events in Dublin on 25 February will be taken into account. I would however emphasise the fundamentally different nature and purpose of the planned event. The priority will be to take whatever policing measures are necessary that the commemoration can be enjoyed by all those involved and attending. All necessary Garda and other resources required to achieve this end will be made available.