Rising crime in Dublin Mid-West reflects Fine Gael’s failure to invest in Gardaí, says Ward

Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Mid-West Mark Ward has said that rising crime figures ‘reflect Fine Gael’s ongoing failure to deliver on policing.’

Analysis of crime figures undertaken by The Irish Independent suggests rising crime rates in Dublin.

This includes Ronanstown and Rathcoole Garda Stations.

“These figures suggest a worrying rise in reported crime across many areas in Dublin Mid-West,” Deputy Ward said.

“This includes Ronanstown and Rathcoole Garda Stations.

“Fine Gael have held responsibility for the Justice Ministry for twelve years now and during this time they have undermined the police service through poor leadership and a failure to plan and invest.

“Gardaí in Dublin do incredible work every day to keep communities safe but too often they feel they lack the support and investment needed to do their jobs to the best of their ability.

“Garda numbers are too low.

“Government have repeatedly failed to address this.

“The Garda Representative Association have warned that targets to recruit Gardaí have already been missed so far this year.

“Morale within An Garda Síochána is also worryingly low.

“Communities across Dublin deserve to feel safe and protected, but in too many instances people fear that the Gardaí are overstretched and will be unable to help them when needed.

“Fine Gael have been soft-touch on crime and have failed to support the police service to do their jobs properly.

“Today’s figures must serve as a wakeup call for the government to get its act together and protect communities in Dublin from crime.”