Public meeting on communities facing crime

A public meeting will be held in Salthill tonight to discuss the “crime wave” sweeping across communities throughout the country.

The meeting – organised by Fianna Fáil’s General Election candidates for Galway West – will offer a “unique insight into problems faced by communities”.

Galway Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Pat Flanagan will be in attendance, along with Bernard Kearney from community group Muintir na Tíre.

Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív said the organisers are anxious to hear from members of the public about their experiences.

“We are determined to make the fight against crime a top priority and we are anxious to hear from members of the public about their experiences.  The party is holding a series of meetings across the country to listen to the concerns of people who are worried about crime.

“We want to see more initiatives to strengthen the Gardai while making it tougher for criminal gangs to target communities.

“There needs to a radical rethink about how we tackle crime.  Fianna Fáil has put forward a 7-point plan aimed at clamping down on this crime spree – it will be one of the issues up for discussion at the meeting.

“I’m delighted that we will be joined by Sergeant Pat Flanagan and Bernard Kearney who will be giving a unique insight into the problems being faced by communities in Galway, as well as measures which can be taken to deter criminals,” said Deputy Ó Cuív.

John Connolly, a former city councillor, said crime cannot be effectively tackled when garda numbers are dwindling.

“Every community across Galway has felt the effects of this crime wave that is sweeping across the country. Garda numbers have decreased significantly over the past five years under this Government, and despite commitments on Garda recruitment, it will take years before we see more boots on the ground.

“The fact of the matter is that the Gardaí need more resources now, not in a few years’ time. Not a week goes by without media reports about the latest burglary or robbery and people are becoming increasingly fearful in their own homes, especially those who are elderly or living on their own,” said Mr Connolly.

Meanwhile, county councillor Mary Hoade – also a candidate for Galway West – said: “People are really worried about their security, in both rural and urban communities.  There is real concern about burglaries and many feel a greater sense of isolation than they did a number of years ago.

“Since 2013, ten Garda stations in Galway have closed leaving communities across the county more exposed and vulnerable.  Garda numbers have also been slashed, from 601 in 2010 to 564 in February this year.

“Criminals are taking advantage of these depleted resources and we have had a number of high profile robberies, being carried out by organised gangs,” said Cllr Hoade.

The meeting will take place in the Galway Bay Hotel tonight (November 30) at 8pm.