The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
‘MORE GARDA PATROLS NEEDED IN KILLORGLIN’
SUPERINTENDENT Flor Murphy has promised more patrols in Killorglin Playground and at the old metal railway bridge in the town following calls from Cllr Michael Cahill who raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in these areas.
At the recent Joint Policing Committee (JPC) Cllr Cahill called on local gardaí to combat anti-social behaviour in the playground which includes youths drinking in the children’s facility.
The old metal bridge is another area of concern too and is again used by young people to drink and for low-level drug use, Cllr Cahill said.
Superintendent Murphy, who is charge of the Killorglin area responded this week and said that more patrols would take place particularly at the old metal railway bridge.
He said he spoke with Sgt Adrian Brennan of Killorglin Garda Station and they have agreed on “high visibility patrolling of the areas in question”
He added that he will also ensure that the Kerry Divisional Drugs Unit will be deployed to both areas.
However, he said the playground was not a matter of huge concern as it is only frequented by a small number of people.
“Sgt Brennan informed me that there is a small core of 3-4 individuals have alcohol issues, are semi-homeless and their appearance alone can create concern. These individuals are regularly arrested and prosecuted,” he said in an email response to Cllr Cahill.
He said bye-laws do not prohibit drinking in Killorglin which restricts garda interference.
Superintendent Murphy also suggested that the gates should be locked to prevent access to the playground.
Superintendent Murphy is also encouraging members of the public to report anti-social behaviour in the town to allow gardaí to act on any incidents in the town.