Appeal for reopening of Ballinrobe Garda Station due to crime activity concerns

A member of the Mayo Joint Policing Committee has called for the reopening of Ballinrobe Garda Station on a full-time basis.

Councillor Damian Ryan issued his appeal in the aftermath of a series of incidents understood to involve members of gangs operating across Mayo and Galway.

The latest incident occurred on Monday evening which started with a violent row in a local establishment and culminated with two cars being involved in a traffic collision at The Neale Road on the town.

Four people were injured, two of whom were hospitalised.

Councillor Ryan said An Garda Siochána had responded swiftly to the recent series of incidents - including shots being fired at a local property - by increased patrols, supported by members of the Garda Armed Support Unit.

But there is clearly a need for the the former garda station in the town and fully staffed.

"I believe it should be reopened as the headquarters of the divisional drugs unit because of the frequency in which illegal substances are being trafficked between Galway and Mayo and vice-versa and the violence it is bringing in its wake.

"I want the matter given very serious consideration by the Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice. I will keep raising the matter until something is done.

"The community of Ballinrobe cannot continue to deal with such serious incidents without a full-time garda presence in the town," added Councillor Ryan.

Gardaí increase patrols in south Mayo town after two serious incidents