Moneymore community centre bid

A new task force, featuring a number of key agencies, aims to tackle a number of social and practical issues in Drogheda.

Following a first meeting last week, Louth County Council will explore the possibility of using exclusion orders against individuals who are engaging in serious anti social behaviour and how a multi purpose community centre might be created in Moneymore. Also, the council will seek Ministerial approval for the Gardai to manage and operate the CCTV system that has been out of action for the past number of years.

The HSE has offered to provide their outreach team to the Connect Family House in Moneymore in order to provide services for the community.

A further exciting prospect is the establishment of a Community Policing Forum for Drogheda where residents groups and individuals can come and articulate their fears, concerns and ideas on issues in Drogheda. Ideas are also being explored as to how to deal with drug debt intimidation and how the community can come together to address this issue”

Senator Ged Nash said “Louth County Council and the other agencies are to be congratulated for the approach being developed. Improvements to roads at the entrance to Moneymore and addressing housing and other estate issues is welcome news. Also, good news is the examination of developing a local CAB Service for the area. ‘

Commenting after the meeting Ms Joan Martin remarked that “There is an onus on all concerned parties, having listened to the wishes of the community, to implement the plan of action that was agreed at our meeting. The Council will move quickly on progressing actions some of which will be delivered in the short term”.

Christy Mangan, Chief Superintendent, Louth Division, commented that “He was pleased to hear that the Community were thankful of the ongoing efforts of An Garda Siochana and that they will fully support Joan and all other agencies as they implement the agreed plan of action.

Cllr Pio Smith said this should be the start of a series of progressive meetings to tackle the issues.