Fianna Fáil calls for 24/7 criminal district court and gardaí on public transport

Fianna Fáil’s Dublin cohort met with assistant garda commissioner Angela Willis to discuss the findings of their survey on anti-social behaviour.

Fianna Fáil’s survey, which gathered the views of almost 1500 people, found that nearly 90% of those polled supported Fianna Fail’s claim to a 24/7 criminal district court in Dublin.

Over 90% of those polled believing that anti-social behaviour has gotten worse over the last decade.

Fianna Fáil has recently passed a motion that called for a minimum of 60 minutes on-foot or pedal bike patrols by gardaí on every shift, dedicated gardaí on public transport as well as community service and restorative justice for those convicted of crimes.

Fianna Fáil Senator in Dublin Central, Mary Fitzpatrick said “the results of our survey are both eye-opening and deeply concerning. It is clear that anti-social behaviour is a pervasive issue that demands immediate and decisive action.”

“Our meeting with assistant commissioner Willis was a productive, open dialogue with our discussion focusing on collaborative strategies to enhance policing efforts and how to best improve the judicial process to better serve the needs of the public.

“Anti-social behaviour not only affects the quality of life for Dubliners but also erodes the sense of community and safety that is essential for our city’s well-being. My party colleagues and I in Fianna Fáil are committed to working closely with law enforcement to implement practical measures that will have a lasting positive impact on our communities.”

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Justice Jim O’Callaghan stressed the urgency of strengthening An Garda Síochána through improved recruitment and retention strategies.

“Our survey highlights a serious issue that demands immediate attention,’’ he said. “To build stronger and safer communities, we must focus on the recruitment and retention of Gardaí.”

O’Callaghan, who lobbied for the entry age limit to be raised to 35, elaborated on the need for a diverse and experienced force, 

“By removing arbitrary age barriers and embracing diversity, we are creating a stronger, more resilient force capable of addressing the complex challenges of modern society. The experience and life skills of older recruits can greatly enhance our policing efforts,” he said.

“The Gardaí play a crucial role in protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities. Without a strong Garda presence, we risk descending into chaos. Every effort should be made to recruit and retain dedicated officers. This includes offering better support, training, and incentives to ensure we maintain a robust force.”