Anti-social behaviour in the city centre was "forseeable", and pro-active policing plan is needed, according to Independent Galway West TD, Catherine Connolly.
Dep Connolly was speaking at Monday's County Joint Policing Committee. "To me it was forseeable there would be trouble on the streets," she said. "The guards were placed in a very difficult position. Regarding Eyre Square, I was one of a minority that begged for community railings to be put in place."
Deputy Connolly added that a lack of resources means it is very difficult for gardaí in Galway.
More gardaí needed
Cllr Mary Hoade had initially spoken about the problems that need to be addressed. "I've had representations from people who have children going into town," Cllr Hoade said. "We do need more gardaí, the concern we have is that people need to be safe. It is about ensuring Galway is a place people come to do business."
Chief Superintendent Tom Curley responded saying the gardaí were working closely with the city council and local businesses.
"We have gardaí deployed on foot patrol for a minimum of six weeks, we will review it then," Chief Superintendent Curley said. "We have to deploy our resources across 47 stations in Garda divisions. I continually sit down with my management team in Galway city and we plan accordingly."
