Councillor defeats former garda chief in vote for chair of new Mayo law and order forum

A ballot has taken place to fill the role of chair of Mayo's new Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP), which has replaced the former joint policing committee.

Crossmolina Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Loftus was chosen to head the law and order forum following the contest.

He defeated former Mayo senior police officer Tony Healy, who retired from the force in 2021 as the last dedicated chief superintendent for the county.

Mr. Healy was subsequently elected unopposed as vice-chairman.

The initial legislation relating to the establishment of partnerships sought to have the forums headed by former garda personnel.

But that was changed when the legislation passed through An Seanad.

A LCSP is required to develop and implement its own tailored community safety plan.

Members must take a strategic approach to the work so that issues arising can be dealt with in a coordinated manner and addressed collectively by relevant service providers in partnership with the community.

Each of the nation's 37 LCSP is supported by a full-time coordinator and full-time administrator resourced by the Department of Justice.