Multi-platformed response taken to anti-social behaviour in Sligo town centre
WIDER issues such as drug addiction are linked to anti-social behaviour in parts of Sligo town centre a senior garda told members of Sligo’s Joint Policing Committee. Superintendent Mandy Gaynor said there were proactive garda patrols and some individuals were or would be before the courts.
She said gardaí were giving “ongoing attention” to not only the Rockwood Parade area but to the entire area down by riverside and the Stephen Street car park. Responding to a question from Cllr Arthur Gibbons, she said, “There are members on proactive patrol down there to address in particular, issues in relation to anti-social behaviour.
“There have been a number of incidents dealt with by the gardaí and there have been a number of arrests which will come before the courts.”
She added: “It is a tourist area in town, there are lots of families in that area and it does receive a lot of garda attention. However, the issue is much more wide reaching with the people who are the cause of the anti-social behaviour and An Garda Síochána are playing their part, but there is a wider issue with addictions and so on, but there is a lot of attention being paid to Rockwood Parade with the resources I have available to me.
“There are groups working very hard in the background, including businesses in the town to help address the issue.”
Gail McGibbon CEO of Sligo Business Improvements District (BID) said the anti-social actions involve a small group of individuals who have serious issues.
She said it was not just an issue for the gardaí, adding that the business community and the people of Sligo have a role to play as have the addiction services.
“I just want it noted that there is a lot of quiet background work [ongoing]. I always get very worried that there is a sweeping generalisation and the actions of a few become the headline.
“I have a very strong opinion that the actions of a few should not impact the enjoyment of that part of the town for the many who go there, be they residents or visitors.
“I want to assure this group there are a lot of conversations [taking place], there are actions taking place. I do know the increased resources that the gardaí have put there is making a difference. I just don’t want it becoming a consistent headline for that area,” she said.