More Gardai and CCTV needed to tackle rural crime

An Offaly/North Tipperary TD believes fear of crime has increased in rural areas and additional gardai and CCTV on roads are needed.

Fianna Fáil TD Barry Cowen said “over the past five years we have seen the serious depletion of Garda resources and manpower here in Offaly and North Tipperary, which has led to an increase in fear in many rural communities.  Older people and people living in isolated areas have been disproportionately affected, but every village has been on edge to some degree.”

He wants the government to follow through on its commitment to increase Garda numbers and invest in resources to ensure that crime is tackled effectively.

“In Offaly we have witnessed a spate of burglaries over the past year, with many believing the motorway network is making it easier for travelling gangs to target nearby towns and villages. Without access to a sufficient Garda fleet these criminals are able to use the road network without fear of being apprehended by the authorities,” explained Deputy Cowen.

As part of the Fianna Fáil Confidence and Supply arrangement, Fine Gael has agreed to increase Garda numbers to 15,000 and support investment in CCTV at key locations along the road network and in urban centres.

Deputy Cowen said “Fianna Fáil fought for improved Garda numbers and resources during its negotiations with Fine Gael and is pleased to have secured a commitment in the Programme for Government to increase Garda numbers to 15,000 and investment in CCTV at key locations along the road network.  This will make a real difference to families, towns and villages in Offaly and around the country and Fianna Fáil will continue to pursue measures to tackle crime and protect our communities.”