Offaly politicians raise Edenderry crime concerns in meeting with Minister for Justice

Offaly TD Tony McCormack and Councillor Claire Murray met with Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan to discuss growing concerns around serious criminality in Edenderry and the need for a 24-hour Garda station in the town.

The meeting which took place at the Department of Justice, focused on the impact recent criminal activity has had on the local community including the tragic arson attack which killed Mary Holt and Tadgh Farrell in December 2025.

The meeting also outlined the importance of ensuring residents of Edenderry feel safe and supported through a strong and visible Garda presence.

Deputy McCormack has raised the issue in the Dáil on several occasions and, together with Cllr Murray, used the opportunity to clearly illustrate the concerns being expressed by people across Edenderry.

Speaking after the meeting, McCormack TD said: "Claire and I made it clear that the level of concern within the community is significant. The people of Edenderry deserve to feel safe in their homes and businesses, and adequate policing resources are essential to delivering that reassurance."

Cllr Murray added that securing a 24-hour Garda station would represent a major step forward for the town.

She explained: "Our community has been very vocal about the need for increased Garda visibility. Ensuring round-the-clock policing would greatly strengthen public confidence and help deter criminal activity."

READ MORE: Top Gold national award for leading hotel in Offaly

Minister O’Callaghan was described as very receptive to the concerns raised and acknowledged the seriousness of the issues affecting the area.

While the decision ultimately rests with the Garda Commissioner, the Minister confirmed he will bring these concerns forward at an upcoming meeting.

Both McCormack and Murray welcomed the positive and constructive nature of the discussion and expressed hope that it will lead to meaningful progress.

McCormack TD commented: "We were encouraged by the Minister’s engagement and his commitment to raising this directly with the Garda Commissioner."

He continued: "We will continue to work together, keep the pressure on, and strongly advocate for the policing presence that Edenderry needs and deserves."

The meeting is viewed as an important step in addressing local safety concerns, with further updates expected following the Minister’s discussions with the Garda Commissioner.