merrion street

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter, TD, has said he shares the widespread public concern at a series of disturbing incidents which took place at a concert in Phoenix Park last Saturday night.

Minister Shatter said 'I cannot comment on the detail of what occurred because I do not want to say anything which might prejudice criminal proceedings. But it is important that all the circumstances of what happened on Saturday night are examined to see what lessons can be learned. I know from the Garda Commissioner that the Gardaí are reviewing what happened and are in touch with the concert promoters in this regard. It is the case that a number of concerts have been held relatively trouble free at the Phoenix Park previously. In those circumstances questions will have to be addressed as to whether there were particular circumstances surrounding this concert which gave rise to difficulties. The Garda Commissioner will let me have a report following his review.'

Without commenting, in advance of the Commissioner's report, on specific arrangements for security at last Saturday's concert, it is worth noting more generally that developments will be taking place in the near future in relation to the licensing of the event security sector.

The Private Security Authority regulates the private security industry in the State. Since its inception the Authority has introduced licensing on a phased basis into various areas of the private security sector. For example, it already licenses both contractors and employees involved in the door supervisor (licensed premises) and security guard (static) sector. Many of those working in event security are therefore already licensed, and, accordingly, have to meet certain standards or acquire certain qualifications.

Minister Shatter said 'I have been working for some time on regulations which will allow the Private Security Authority to license contractors and personnel working in the event security area. I expect to finalise those regulations shortly and the Private Security Authority propose to license all contractors working in the event security area by Autumn, 2012. Licensing of all individuals working in the sector will then follow'.