Donegal Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Sinn Féin demand adequate policing response to anti-social elements

Published: 3 May, 2006

Sinn Féin Councillor Pearse Doherty has welcomed the public meeting that took place in Gweedore last night and has commended the community for their attendance.

Cllr Doherty was speaking after the community-organised event, which was attended by over 250 people, to give local people a voice against anti social and criminal behaviour in their communities.

Cllr Doherty said:

"Last night's meeting was a huge morale boost to the local community who felt isolated and beleaguered over the last number of months. Last night's meeting was a chance for the community to put their real fears on record and it very clearly demonstrated the wealth of emotion that has been bubbling under the surface.

"I personally get the impression that satisfaction with the service provided by the Gardaí is at an all time low and this is something that must be restored immediately. This latest public meeting showed quite clearly that the community is demanding an adequate policing response to deal with anti-social behaviour and that they are willing to play there part.

"Last night I pointed out that I have written to and contacted the Superintendent for the area on several occasions regarding this wave of criminality and also the lower level of vandalism which is occurring at an alarming pace. However, to date I have still not received any response concerning the complaints. The lack of response to genuine concerns raised by me from local people does little to restore faith in those whose responsibility it is to lend their full support to facilitating an environment in which all citizens can feel safe.

"Whilst there are no doubt that issues of parenting play a major role in this wave of anti-social behaviour, we need to see greater levels of cooperation and communication between the Gardai and the local community. The arrests of many of those involved in this crime in the area is particularly welcome but there is a real sense that we need to stand together if we are to stamp out this type of activity once and for all."