We have determined the nonlocal, dynamic dielectric response properties of a multiple-quantum-wire lattice embedded in a semi-infinite plasma-like host medium, with the progression of parallel wires perpendicular to the interface, while the wires themselves are parallel to the surface. This is carried out within the framework of the random phase approximation, neglecting tunnelling. In this study, we have also investigated the condition for the occurrence of current-driven plasmon instability as a function of z(0), the distance of the first quantum wire from the bounding surface, and as a function of a, the separation of the quantum wires. Furthermore, the coupled mode dispersion relations for the plasmons of multiple-quantum-wire systems in interaction with the surface and bulk plasmons of the host material are analysed for dependences on the geometrical parameters z(0) and a.