Sunshine causes crime cloud

Their fears are heightened by the absence of a Community Garda, whose duties are currently overstretched because of cut backs in the Garda Siochana.

Councillor Declan McDonnell has called for an increased Garda presence on the east of the city following feedback from people on the doorsteps during his election canvassing.

“Mervue, Renmore, Doughiska and Ballybane is quite a large community and though we have a Community Garda, he needs to be more visible on the street to reduce crime.

“This is not a criticism on the individual Garda, but a call for backup when he has to attend other duties such as giving evidence in Court, on search and rescue or accompanying prisoners to Portlaoise Prison.

“I was told by many on the doorstep, especially the elderly and those living alone, that they dread the good weather because it increases anti-social behaviour and drug abuse is more visible and it ultimately leads to crime,” he said.

Cllr McDonnell has sought a meeting with An Garda Siochana to discuss policing matters in his area in the east side of the city.

“Over the last number of months there has been a significant increase in crime, anti-social behaviour, drug abuse and drinking in playing fields and recreational areas, which is a cause of great concern to residents, particularly the elderly, and it will only get worse in the good weather,” he added.

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune.