CALLS are being made for a full-time Community Engagement Van to be allocated in Limerick city.
Labour TD for Limerick Conor Sheehan says the addition of a van “within the city would increase Garda visibility and make our streets feel safer.”
There is already a Community Engagement van in the city but it does not operate on a full-time basis.
Speaking after receiving a reply to a Parliamentary Question in the Dáil, Deputy Sheehan said: “Following enquiries I made with the Garda Commissioner’s office, I have been informed that eleven new vans will be coming on stream in 2026. Three of these have been requested for the Southern Division and I would urge an Garda Siochána to station one of these vans in Limerick on a full-time basis.”
“Businesses in Limerick have told me that the presence of the community engagement van in Limerick city centre are an important and effective visual Garda presence especially during key events”, he added.
The vehicles are equipped with audio visual equipment which allow Gardaà to communicate to those attending public gatherings and outdoor events, as well as displaying important public guidance and safety advice.
Separately, a business case has also been submitted to acquire an additional ten Community Engagement vans, which will be divided among various Regions and Divisions, with delivery not expected until 2026.
Limerick City and County Council funded an additional 200 hours of policing in the city centre last Christmas, including a Community Engagement Van throughout the month of December.