October 17, 2019
Garda overtime ban must be lifted over the Halloween period – Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD

Sinn Féin Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has today raised the impact that the current overtime ban in place in An Garda Síochána will have over the critical Halloween period.

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Ó Snodaigh said:

“The Halloween period is annually the busiest and most dangerous period for frontline emergencies and local communities across the State with a significant increase in the level of anti-social and illegal activity.

“There is genuine fear in communities at present with an upsurge in anti-social behaviour already related to illegal fireworks and gathering of materials for bonfires that  Garda authorities will not have the resources or capacity available to cope with an upsurge in illegal activity.

“Over previous years, work behind the scenes involving Dublin City Council, youth services, community groups and An Garda Síochána has promoted safe activities and events over the Halloween period and it has been a positive time for communities.

“I am fearful this year that the Garda overtime ban will expose communities to dangerous fires and anti-social behaviour and will also stop the work of Dublin City Council in removing bonfire material from public parks and flat complexes.

“Tensions run high at this time of year and where gaps arise, serious violence can occur and public safety and order is threatened.

“I am therefore calling on the Minister for Justice to adequately fund An Garda Síochána & for the Garda Commissioner to lift the current Garda overtime ban that is in place and will keep our communities safe and secure over the next number of weeks.

“If he can spend €15 millions on security for US President Trump and Vice-President Mike Pence, or lift it for the policing of the recent FAI Cup semi-final between Shamrock Rovers and Bohemians then he has to protect communities and Dublin City Council frontline staff over the Halloween period.”

Follow us online

Latest Tweets

Transparency & accountability crucial to restore confidence at University of Limerick – @QuinlivanTD

Teachta Quinlivan's comments come following reports the Garda Economic Crime Bureau is examining issues relating to a controversial housing deal at UL.

It is essential that a State apology is now made to the families of the Stardust tragedy.

@MaryLouMcDonald has said that the apology must address the failures of governments, not just 43 years ago in the aftermath of this tragedy, but every day since then.

#JFT48

Following a meeting with the families of the Stardust tragedy this morning, @MaryLouMcDonald has said that "a full state apology to the families must be made now, and it must address the systematic failure over 43 years".

MORE: https://vote.sinnfein.ie/a-full-state-apology-to-stardust-families-must-address-systematic-failure-over-43-years-mary-lou-mcdonald/

ICOB in danger of being becoming another failed government business support scheme – @loreillysf

“It's essential that the May 1st deadline for registrations is extended, and that government & local authorities engage with SME's to encourage take-up."

Load More