Fianna Fáil TD Seán Haughey has welcomed the news that Gardaí will be increasing patrols of public areas to stop gangs of teenagers which have been frightening communities recently. Deputy Haughey contacted local Gardaí following two recent attacks in Baldoyle and Portmarnock by large gangs of teenagers.
In a reply to Deputy Haughey’s email, the Coolock Garda Station Superintendent said “I have refocused the policing operation from high density checkpoints to patrols of open amenity areas with a particular focus on youths and young adults. I have engaged Public Order Units in support of beat patrols and pedal cycle patrols.”
The Superintendent in Raheny Garda Station also said he had deployed extra dedicated patrols to police public amenities to include Baldoyle, Sutton and Howth and our public parks.
Deputy Haughey called on people to support the Gardaí and to provide them with information to help their policing response. He said, “Firstly I would like to commend the men and women of the Gardaí who have been dealing with the rise in violent assaults and anti-social behaviour recently.
“Most young people have acted responsibility during this pandemic, but I’m sure everyone has seen teenagers and young people who are disregarding public health advice by meeting in large groups and ignoring social distancing. Ultimately, these young people and their parents must take responsibility for their actions.
“The recent attacks in Baldoyle and Portmarnock were vicious, with a large group ganging up on one person. The incidents are being investigated and I hope those responsible are brought to justice. I will be raising this matter with the Minister for Justice to ensure Gardaí in these districts have adequate resources and personnel to deal with these issues. I urge the public to continue co-operating with Gardaí during this crisis,” he concluded.
