Offaly TD informs Taoiseach of the need for an enhanced garda presence in Edenderry

Offaly TD John Clendennen has raised the urgent need for a strengthened Garda presence in Edenderry directly with An Taoiseach in the Dáil.

This comes in the aftermath of the tragic deaths of Mary Holt and Tadhg Farrell which have caused profound shock and deep concern across the town along with the wider Offaly community and beyond.

Speaking after raising the issue, Deputy Clendennen said that the loss of two lives in such harrowing circumstances has led to concerns locally regarding Garda visibility and the operational capacity of Edenderry Garda Station.

The fine Gael TD stated: "Since these tragic events, I have raised the matter directly with the Minister for Justice and met locally with Garda representatives and engaged with the community.

He continued: "There is a very strong and consistent call for increased Garda visibility and extended opening hours at Edenderry Garda Station."

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Deputy Clendennen highlighted in the Dáil that, despite these concerns, only two probationer Gardaí were assigned to the wider Laois/Offaly Division in the most recent Garda attestation, with both allocated to Portlaoise.

He said that Edenderry is not receiving the level of Garda resources required to meet the growing demands and what it rightly deserves as a town.

John Clendennen TD said: "I asked the Taoiseach how the Government proposes to respond to these legitimate and ongoing calls for enhanced Garda resources in Edenderry, and how additional Gardaí can be allocated to the town without negatively impacting policing services elsewhere in Offaly."

He also pressed the Taoiseach on whether he would engage directly with the Garda Commissioner to secure a stronger and more balanced allocation of Garda resources for Offaly.

The local TD queried if there would be a clear commitment to increased Garda graduate placements in the county following the next passing-out ceremony at Templemore.

Deputy Clendennen concluded: "Community confidence in policing matters, Edenderry is a growing town, and people need to see and feel a Garda presence in the community.

I will continue to pursue this issue at the highest level to ensure Edenderry receives the Garda resources it deserves."