Cabbage Patch Park, Kevin St, Dublin
415. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the complaints of anti-social behaviour at night time in the park known as the Cabbage Patch beside the Iveagh Trust complex, Kevin Street, Dublin involving drinking sessions, loud music, lighting fires and various other acts of vandalism; if the Garda Síochána have made an attempt to prevent this taking place or to arrest those involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27441/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I am familiar with the concerns of residents in the Iveagh Trust complex and I have already raised the issue of anti-social behaviour in this area with the Garda authorities and a number of other bodies.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area is frequently patrolled by foot, particularly by members attached to the community policing unit at Kevin Street. Community gardai have also met with residents in the area and others to discuss policing and security issues including a community based CCTV system.
I am further informed that complaints of anti social behaviour have been received and swiftly dealt with by the gardaí. The area is constantly targeted with high visibility policing and the gardaí continue to liaise with different agencies, particularly the local residents association, to allay any fears they may have. I understand that improvements have become apparent in recent times.
I am assured that the Gardaí at Kevin Street will continue to ensure high visibility policing for the area and where breaches of the criminal law are detected, appropriate Garda action will follow. The area will continue to be closely monitored to ensure that adequate resources are deployed, sufficent to deal with its crime exposure and to assuage the fears of local residents.
April 18th, 2007 at 9:55 am
I no it is not a safe place for a child to play in becouse my child went to that park to paly in with his friends on there bike and when he came back he had no bike… I went to the poilce and thay went over to the park but the bike was gone …. so someone would want to do something about that park ….
December 4th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
I am a horticultural student and have previously been placed with the crew from St. Patrick’s Park, which also take care of the Cabbage Patch.
Every morning the team patrol the park and remove rubbish in extraordinary amounts. Beds, fridges, chest of drawers and many other bulky items as well as numerous glass bottles, beer cans, needles and general waste are taken away, yet it is just as bad the very next day.
The park has such a vibrant historical past but no one seems to take note of that fact. People need to treat the area with respect and shame those who do not into behaving. If we did not have to spend an hour picking up the rubbish we could have spent a hour planting a beautiful flower bed for all to enjoy.
I look forward to seeing the future developments in the park and hope it can become a beautiful space for everyone to enjoy without fear and intimidation.