CRIME FELL BEFORE STATION REOPENED
Fresh questions over Stepaside
CRIME rates fell “significantly” in a local area ahead of a decision to reopen its Garda station, a report has shown.
The reopening of the station in Independent Minister Shane Ross’s constituency in Stepaside, south Dublin, sparked huge controversy.
He has been accused of “stroke politics” which he has denied, saying he made a campaign promise to reopen the station.
Garda management reviewed 78 towns and found a rise in property crime in Stepaside in 2014 and 2015, before a fall in 2016.
There were only four stations to select from to reopen in Dublin and according to the report, it was consdered the most suitable.
It pointed out that the population in the area had increased by up to 20%, which was the main reason for choosing to reopen that station.
The decision was made at Enda Kenny’s last Cabinet meeting as Taoiseach in June earlier this year.
Fianna Fail spokesman on Justice and Equality Jim O’callaghan stated the report raised questions.
He said: “The Government committed to explaining the full rationale behind the proposal to reopen Stepaside Garda station. They are using the report’s publication to stand over the decision.
“It’s important to note that the second interim report, published today, is dated August 6, 2017. The decision to reopen Stepaside Garda station was taken on June 13.
“Acting Garda Commissioner Donall O Cualain stated at this week’s Public Accounts Committee meeting that Garda management forwarded a report to Government in advance of the cabinet meeting regarding the proposal to reopen the station. The Government received this report on June 9 , 2017. “It would appear the cabinet decision to reopen Stepaside Garda station was based on the first report from Garda management. “The first interim report needs to be published immediately so we can get an understanding why the decision was taken.”