Hundreds of students and school pupils marched through Dublin city centre today protesting against Government plans to introduce controversial anti-social behaviour orders (Asbos).
With Justice Minister Michael McDowell eager to adopt the orders this summer. protesters claimed it was an attack on civil liberties. Around 200 demonstrators paraded along O'Connell Street before holding a rally at the Central Bank and calling on Mr McDowell to abandon his plan.
Rory Hearne, Union of Students inIreland(USI) deputy president, said it was time for the Government to see sense. "These measures if introduced will seriously impinge on young people's freedoms and the civil liberties of everyone," he said.
Mr Hearne called on the government to tackle the root problem of anti-social behaviour such as inequality in education and the lack of recreational facilities in certain areas.
He suggested some politicians were supporting Asbos - which could be used against children as young as ten - for political capital.
Organisers claimed 46 per cent of local authorities did not provide playgrounds, while there were twice as many golf courses as playgrounds in the country. And they said youth clubs were closing because of a lack of funding while alcohol free entertainment venues were virtually non-existent.
Protesters also claimed TDs from across the political spectrum were backing their campaign.
The USI’s Hazel Nolan acknowledged that anti-social behaviour was a growing problem in Irish society. But she warned using the orders to clampdown on kids would be seen as a lack of respect and understanding.
"The proposal to introduce Asbos is a direct sign of lack of respect for young people, and it is hypocritical to presume that respect can exist if it is not mutual," Ms Nolan said. She they were a "a quick fix to a serious problem