Petition for increased resources at Coolock garda station

Recent unsettling events, escalating anti-social behaviour and thefts in Dublin Bay North have left some residents feeling vulnerable and anxious, according to Fine Gael local election candidate Supriya Singh.

She says that in response to community concerns, she has initiated a petition calling for increased Garda resources at the Coolock Garda Station.

“Fine Gael’s Budget 2024 not only ensures increased pay for Garda recruits but also addresses the urgent safety concerns of Dublin Bay North communities,” Supriya Singh told Northside People.

“We acknowledge and appreciate the national investment in An Garda Síochána through Budget 2024, which will undeniably strengthen our law enforcement across the country.”

“However, our commitment extends deeper, particularly addressing the acute safety and security concerns expressed by the residents of Belmayne, Balgriffin, Clongriffin, Donaghmede, and Clarehall.”

Singh said the local community’s petition for additional resources at Coolock Garda Station, which can be found at my.uplift.ie, “has not gone unheard.”

“I firmly stand with our residents advocating for a substantial increase in Garda presence in our community,” she said.

“The departure of dedicated officers from Coolock Garda Station has been felt deeply, and the potential reduction of the community clinic’s operating hours only adds to the existing concerns.

While she says the provisions in Budget 2024, including the €121 increase in training allowance for trainee Gardaí and a 25% increase in Garda overtime support, are steps in the right direction, these national efforts, combined with local initiatives, such as the establishment of a neighbourhood watch program and a campaign for increased Garda presence, aim to create a robust safety net for the residents.

“The financial support for Gardai in the budget will have a direct effect in the Gardaí’s efforts to conduct operations to tackle anti-social behaviour in our towns and cities to restore a sense of security and community well-being,” Singh added.

The Budget also includes funding for essential equipment, a recruitment campaign for Garda Reserves, and a significant increase in funding to tackle Domestic, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence – all crucial components for building safer communities.

Fine Gael and Minister for Justice Helen McEntee stated that, “Fine Gael is the party of law and order, and safe communities is a key value of our party. Budget 2024 reiterates our commitment to keeping our communities secure, now and into the future.”

“I urge the residents of Dublin Bay North to see Budget 2024 as a testament to Fine Gael’s commitment to law, order, and community safety. Together, let’s continue to advocate for and work towards a safer and more secure future for all, making Dublin Bay North a safe place to call home,” concluded Singh.