Garda numbers set to triple for Halloween night for bonfire night

A SOUTHSIDE TD has welcomed a Garda decision to triple the number of officers on duty for Halloween night this year.

Deputy John Lahart (FF) had raised the issue with the Chief Superintendent at the most recent meeting of the Joint Policing Committee of the council in September.

“I raised the issue of policing because it had been well flagged to me by local residents following the events of bonfire night in 2016 and at public meetings,” Deputy Lahart said.

“The Garda had committed to be well-prepared to deal with anti-social behaviour that might arise this year.

“I wanted to ensure that they were following through on that commitment.”

The Chief Superintendent Duff, who is also the Co-Ordinating Garda Officer for the Dublin Region on Bonfire Night, stated that Garda numbers would be approximately trebled for bonfire night to ensure that it is a night that the whole community can enjoy. 

The Director of Community Services for the Council, Billy Coman, also stated at the meeting that as Halloween isn’t falling on a weekend night, that council staff would be available in the days leading up to and on the day itself to ensure removal of illegal bonfire material.

“Hopefully this will see an end to some of the outrageous behaviour that took place last year around Halloween,” Deputy Lahart added.

Last year Dublin City Council removed in excess of 420 tonnes of bonfire materials.