The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Mr Michael Conaghan, is urging Dubliners to speak out about anti-social behavour and public disorder in the city.
Mr Michael Conaghan, who recently established a Commission on Crime and Policing in Dublin, is appealing to the public to make written submissions on how best they think the problem should be tackled.
So far, the commission has received more than 50 submissions from various organisations and individuals. It is consulting with focus groups including representatives of the gardaí, business associations, public transport bodies and Dublin community groups.
The commission is to present its initial findings to the Government in December when it reports to the Minister for Justice.
It is hoped the findings will influence national legislation in advance of the recently published new Garda Bill, which has yet to be enacted. The Bill proposes a direct role in policing for communities and Dublin City Council.
The Commission on Crime and Policing aims to tackle street fighting and general public disorder, as well as public consumption of alchohol and drugs.
"Before we complete our report I want to hear the views and concerns of everybody living or working in Dublin, especially those adversely affected by this behaviour," Mr Conaghan said.
Policing is crucial but on its own provides only a part of the overall solution, and individuals, parents, schools and communities all have a role to play on this issue, he said.
Submissions can be emailed to lordmayor@dublincity.ieor posted to the Lord Mayor, The Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2. The closing date for submissions is November 20th, 2004.