Call for community CCTV to stamp out Castlebar's anti-social problems

JUSTICE Minister Charlie Flanagan has been requested to provide funding for a community CCTV system in Castlebar town centre.

A submission was made to him by local general election candidate Alan Dillon in the aftermath of a wave of anti-social behaviour in recent weeks.

The Fine Gael representative said such a system has proved the single biggest deterrent in dealing with on-street intimidation in other towns.

He made the application after attending a meeting between retailers and Garda Superintendent Kevin Gately over the difficulties being experienced.

Supt. Gately gave ratepayers an assurance there will be a higher level of community police patrolling of streets, playgrounds and streets over the months ahead.

He emphasised the importance of reporting incidents and disturbances as soon as they take place. He stated early intervention depending on An Garda Siochana knowing about problems as swiftly as possible.

Mr. Dillon said much of the problems were caused by a group of between eight and 10 people and there was a need for an educational programme to change their behaviour.

“It is important to ensure that Castlebar's reputation as a friendly town is maintained and protected. Court prosecutions and a zero tolerance approach by the judiciary will help to achieve this,” he added.