New body will enhance Offaly people's safety and well-being

As a dedicated advocate for community involvement, Cllr. McCormack strongly believes in the power of local voices in shaping a safer and more cohesive community.

"Ensuring the safety and security of our residents is a top priority," stated Cllr. McCormack. "The Local Community Safety Partnership offer a unique and vital platform for residents to actively participate in discussions and decisions that directly impact their lives. It is essential that every voice is heard and valued in this process."

LCSP will bring together representatives from various sectors including local authorities, An Garda Síochána, health services, and community organisations. "The LCSP which replaces the Joint Policing Committee (JPC), aims to build on the collaborative work already carried out by the JPC. The LSCP will give communities a stronger voice in identifying, prioritising and tackling the issues they face. These partnerships aim to address local safety issues through collaborative efforts and shared responsibilities. By fostering open communication and mutual understanding, LCSP can identify and implement effective solutions tailored to the specific needs of the community.

"Community safety is not solely the responsibility of the Garda Siochana, it requires a collective effort from all stakeholders," Cllr McCormack continued. This LSCP will allow for a more broad representation from the community including local and public representatives, the business and education sectors and service providers. "By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone. I am committed to ensuring that our LCSP are inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the concerns of our residents."

Cllr McCormack also expressed his optimism about the potential successes of this partnership. "I have great hopes for the impact of LCSP in County Offaly. I have seen first-hand as chair of the estate management committee, a subgroup of the JPC. The benefits of a collaborative approach to address residents' concerns, including issues like anti-social behaviour and illegal encampments. By leveraging the knowledge and expertise of local residents, we can achieve significant progress in addressing safety challenges. I encourage all community members to engage with their LCSP, share their insights, and contribute to the collective goal of a safer County Offaly."

The establishment of LCSP is a significant step towards building stronger, more resilient communities. Cllr McCormack encourages all residents to take an active role in the partnership and to work together towards a safer county.