There will be two full-time community gardai patrolling the Salthill and Knocknacarra area in the next couple of weeks with the aim of addressing the high levels of anti-social behaviour that have occurred in recent months.
While discussing the incidents of thefts, burglaries, and even assaults that took place in Salthill over the summer Chief Superintendent Tom Curley told the Joint Policing Committee this week that “progess has been made in relation to these in certain areas”, but that the injured parties have not been willing to make statements. “We are continuing to liaise with these people,” said Chief Supt Curley, explaining that it is hoped the two full time community gardai, for the Salthill and Knocknacarra area, will deal with the situation of anti-social behaviour and delinquency. “It needs dealing with on the ground,” he added.
Thanking Galway gardai for their cooperation, Cllr Donal Lyons said that at a recent meeting in Knocknacarra residents made it known there was a serious need for more gardai on the ground. He added that five years ago there had been four community gardai in the area and “there is a need to bring back these numbers as they act as the eyes and ears”.
Cllr Niall McNelis said that residents in Salthill wished to thank gardai for increasing their presence. Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh also welcomed the news but queried if there would be a review of other areas in the city in relation to additional community gardai and presence.
“I have to get the best out of the resources I have,” said Chief Supt Curley, who added that there is an on-going review of all areas with the view of acting and “getting in there” as soon as possible.
