Policing the top issue in Roscrea say concerned local representatives

A local Roscrea Councillor is calling for a meeting with the Superintendent for the Nenagh Garda Division to discuss the need for an increase in Garda resources and manpower, which he says is the top priority issue in the town.

The calls come against the backdrop of an increase in anti-social behaviour in Roscrea and a local Councillor demanding “respect and fairness for the people of Roscrea”.

Independent Councillor Shane Lee has requested the meeting with Superintendent Alan Cullen, who has responsibility for the Clare East and Tipperary North Community Engagement Area (Garda Operating Model) and the Clare/Tipperary Garda Division.

Local people have reported an increase in anti-social behaviour throughout the town the local Councillor says and is calling on people to report incidents privately to him before meeting with Supt. Cullen.

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Recently social media reports of increased numbers of people consuming alcohol in Roscrea's town park, Glebe Park, which is not equipped with public lavatories, attracted a large response from local people who say they don’t feel safe in the town and are uncomfortable allowing their children to use the park facilities.

Roscrea Garda Station's unpredictable opening hours and the short duration the Station opens to the public every week is also a major concern for local people.

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Late last year Tipperary Labour TD, Deputy Alan Kelly told the Dáil the Nenagh Garda Division, which covers the Roscrea area, is one of the most overstretched in the country.

The very large District stretches from Borris-In-Ossory to the border with Limerick and covers Rearcross as far as Portumna Bridge and Killaloe - the largest Garda District in the country.