Balbriggan representatives shocked by anti social problems in town

LOCAL representatives in Balbriggan are calling for help to deal with ongoing anti-social problems in the town.

This follows the latest incidents which saw teenagers fighting on the streets, leaving many local residents shocked and concerned.

Sinn Fein TD Louise O’Reilly said the increase in street violence since Covid-19 has left the community “feeling isolated”.

In a letter sent to Justice Minister Helen McEntee, the Fingal TD suggested that the Department of Justice should liaise with Fingal County Council to work on sorting out the problems of anti-social behaviour in the local community.

“I’m not responding to those trying to use Balbriggan to stir up tension and trouble but I’m here to get the town the facilities and support it needs,” Deputy O Reilly said.

“I am reaching out to you regarding the very difficult situation which has materialised in Balbriggan.

“Balbriggan is a beautiful town with lovely people.

“Unfortunately due to poor planning over the years, a lack of amenities, and an inadequate level of gardai, anti-social behaviour has become a significant problem for the town.

“In recent weeks, perhaps due to the number of outlets closed because of Covid-19, incidents of anti-social behaviour have risen and we have had reports of suspected arson attacks as well as street violence.”

Independent Balbriggan Councillor Tony Murphy also called for more support from all relevant agencies for the people of Balbriggan.

’I’m appalled over the events in Balbriggan last weekend and saddened by such massive negative social media coverage,” he told Northside People.

“However, the issues are real and we as a community cannot allow a cohort of individuals run riot around our town and show no respect for people.

“Nobody is above the law and the people of Balbriggan should not have to live in fear.

“I have engaged with my Councillor colleagues and members of the Gardaí who have agreed to a meeting early next week to discuss how to deal with these incidents and how to put a stop to this unacceptable behaviour.

“I have been inundated with calls from constituents over the last few days who desperately need reassurance.”

“The outpouring of anger and upset shows how much the people of Balbriggan really care about their town and we cannot allow a small number of young offenders think they can do what they want and get away with it.”

Fine Gael TD for Fingal, Alan Farrell, likewise spoke of his shock following the violent scenes in Balbriggan.

“Over the weekend a series of altercations and other wanton anti-social incidents between groups of youths took place in Balbriggan, these events left local residents concerned and anxious,” he said.

“I have been in contact with local Gardai and will be working to ensure that adequate resources are given to them, in order to tackle this problem.

“This matter is being investigated by the Gardai and efforts are being made to identify those involved.

“I recognise the need for more Gardai in the area to reassure worried residents and will be contacting the Department of Justice and Equality on this matter.

“While these events were severe, they speak to the wider problem of anti-social behaviour being experienced in many towns and cities in the country.

“To solve this problem, we will need engagement from stakeholders and youth groups as well as Government and Gardai.

“By engaging with young people before they get involved in these types of behaviours, we can prevent such scenes reoccurring.”