Tipp TD highlights concerns over anti-social behaviour

Tipperary Sinn Féin TD Martin Browne has said that questions must be answered about the resources needed to enable gardai to curb instances of anti-social behaviour as seen on Halloween night in Tipperary town. It also brings into stark relief the additional need to meaningfully address social exclusion and deprivation.

The Sinn Féin TD made the comment after dangerous behaviour resulted in fires being set in residential areas, attacks on cars, and other instances of unacceptable behaviour.

Teachta Browne said: “What was witnessed by residents in parts of Tipperary town last night were unacceptable and dangerous.

“The fact that this could happen indicates that the resources available to our emergency services is far from sufficient.

“This shortfall in resourcing has resulted in residents having to isolate themselves in their homes and being fearful from going outside. Effectively, local residents were prevented from exercising their rights as citizens from going about their business.

“Garda presence can be framed in terms of overall garda numbers, but these figures can often misrepresent the actual availability of on-duty gardai in an area at any one moment in time and their ability to respond.

“When the number of gardai on duty falls below what is actually needed, then questions must be raised about the value that this government attaches to the ability of our local gardai to respond to incidents as they occur, especially on nights like Hallowe’en.

“I understand the number of gardai on duty that night was insufficient to deal with the level of demand last night.

“This has been an ongoing matter locally and nationally for years and is one that rightfully needs discussion ahead of an imminent general election. Our government representatives need to step up and account for the record of their respective parties on the issue of policing on a local basis.

“But additionally, the matter extends further. Disadvantage needs to be addressed. For too long certain communities have felt abandoned and left to fend for themselves.

“While local community organisations are doing fantastic work to improve the circumstances of their localities, they often feel as though they are working in a vacuum with little Departmental assistance.

“This is a failing that has been unaddressed for years. It is now time to take meaningful action to address exclusion and disadvantage.

“Alongside Cllr Annemarie Ryan I have sought a meeting with local gardai on this matter and we are raising it with the Minister for Justice as well as the Minister for Rural and Community Development.”