Gardaí need tools to tackle dangerous use of fireworks and anti-social behaviour says TD

Gardaí must be given resources to allow them tackle the dangerous use of fireworks and anti-social behaviour that is ongoing in communities right across north Dublin.

This is according to Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Bay North Denise Mitchell who has called on the Government to help local gardai Gardaí tackle the twin threats.

“Since August of this year fireworks, rockets and bangers are going off morning, noon and night,” Deputy Mitchell said.

“People are genuinely afraid, with reports of elderly people having bangers put through their letterboxes and fireworks being aimed at moving cars.

“Peoples property has been damaged, and kids are afraid to play outside. It is also causing huge distress to pets that are up the walls with the constant loud bangs.

“This behaviour needs to stop and our communities need assistance and support.

“It’s unfair on everyone living in these areas and is not something they should have to put up with. Those selling them need to cop on.”

Deputy Mitchell said the problems in her own constituency are also to be found in communities all over Dublin.

“We also have an increase in anti-social behaviour in parts of the constituency and this needs to be addressed,” she said.

“It is reflected right across this city, with many communities experiencing problems with drugs and gangs.

“In March of this year there were 39 Community Gardaí assigned to DMR North, but the latest figure in July shows a drop of nearly 75% in Community Gardaí, with only 11 now assigned to DMR North.

“That’s disgraceful.

“But I’m not surprised.

“Governments have neglected our communities for decades when it comes to policing resources.

“This behaviour needs to be tackled, and Gardaí need the tools to do their job.”