LOCAL Labour TD Conor Sheehan has called for additional funding for policing in Limerick, specifically for King’s Island and the city centre.
Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Sheehan also wanted an application for CCTV that has been sent to the Department of Justice to be approved.
“I raise the issue of policing, in particular in Limerick City. Recently, we have unfortunately had an escalation of violence in the Ballinacurra Weston area and a deterioration of the situation in King’s Island following the very successful operations Capóg and Feabhsaigh,” he told the Dáil.
According to Deputy Sheehan, continued refusal of a sanction for overtime, especially in King’s Island, means the situation is getting worse.
“Unfortunately, we had a situation in the city centre where a prominent employer was assaulted, causing him to take refuge in a hotel,” the Labour TD explained.
“He had to be escorted home. Despite concerns being repeatedly raised by everyone from businesses to community leaders, the lack of a visible policing presence has become a defining feature of the city centre.
“I am asking for additional funding for policing in Limerick, specifically for King’s Island and the city centre, and the approval of an application for CCTV that has been sent to the Department of Justice.”
In response, Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan pointed out that he was in Limerick City four weeks ago and met with Limerick Chamber and members of An Garda Síochána.
“It is true to say that requests were made for further Garda visibility on the ground. I brought that message back to the Garda Commissioner,” the Minister said.
“There was also a request for a community van, which would be of assistance. I am trying to see, through the department, whether that can be done. I will take on board what the Deputy said, discuss it further with the Garda Commissioner and try to ensure that the visible policing the Deputy wants is put in place,” the Minister said.
