asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of public anxiety over increasing levels of muggings and vandalism; and the proposals he has for dealing with the problem.

The Commissioner for the Garda Síochána has informed me that the additional measures that were introduced in the latter part of 1977 to combat vandalism and street crime are proving effective in dealing with the situation. The available statistics suggest that there has been a decrease in recent months in the more serious crimes of the kinds mentioned. The matter is kept under constant review.

Noting that there has been some success in this area, has the Minister any other measures in mind to bring about a further reduction in this problem? It is very worrying for many sections of the community.

I accept that and I am in constant touch with the Garda authorities with regard to progress in this area.

Arising out of the Minister's concern for this problem, are there any negotiations under way with the Department of the Environment to try to get at the environmental basis for much of this crime, particularly juvenile crime? Would the Minister consider making representations to his colleagues to invest in facilities for young people in those areas from which much of the crime seems to emanate?

I should like to assure the House and Deputy Keating that a number of Departments are informally involved with my Department and the Garda Síochána in an effort to improve the situation.

Is there a structure?

There are informal consultations.