Groups of youths gathering on waste ground last weekend in Knocknacarra, in defiance of social distancing and health guidelines, has led to a councillor calling for joint action by parents and gardaí against anti-social behaviour.
The incident occurred on Saturday March 20 when an estimated 100 young people gathered on waste ground between Millars Lane and the surrounding residential housing estates in Knocknacarra.
According to Fine Gael Galway City West councillor, Clodagh Higgins, the “party-goers” began congregating at around 9pm, and while gardaí were quickly on the scene to break up proceedings, they were forced to retain a presence in the area until around 3am.
'Parents need to take responsibility'
“In ordinary times this would be dreadful carry on,” said Cllr Higgins, “but having it happen during a pandemic is just wrong on so many levels. Parents need to take some responsibility for this, especially given many at this unauthorised party were teenagers.”
As a result Cllr Higgins is calling for more resources for the gardaí to tackle antisocial behaviour. However she said parents need to support the gardaí in this as well. She has since written to the chair of the Joint Policing Committee requesting a meeting be set up “immediately” with resident groups, gardaí, the local retail park, and schools in the area to tackle this issue.
