Call for Garda ‘sub-stations’ after spate of violence in city
Waterford city councillor Seamus Ryan demanded manned stations in each of the city’s electoral wards. He claimed new stations would “compliment” the main station at Ballybricken.
Cllr Ryan said that the Government’s attitude was that the resources are not available.
“But my attitude is, ‘We can’t afford to not do this’.”
He made the remarks following a week marred by unrelated assaults and public disorder in the city centre and in the suburbs.
A 20-year-old man had to be transferred to Cork University Hospital after being attacked at John Street in the city centre, in the early hours of Sunday.
Garda Sergeant Larry Langton yesterday said the attack appears to have been unprovoked and that the man was “boxed and kicked” into the face. The victim was first taken toWaterford Regional Hospital and then to CUH.
Two youths, aged 16 and 18, were arrested and released, while a file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
A 26-year-old woman was assaulted on Monday at about 2.45am and her handbag was stolen. A 20-year-old woman was arrested and later released pending further inquiries.
Meanwhile, a number of people were treated for injuries at Waterford Regional Hospital after they were attacked at Maypark Lane, a Waterford city suburb, over the weekend.
Gardaí believe that the juveniles were attacked upon leaving a party after a group were refused entry earlier in the evening.
Two juveniles were arrested in connection with public order offences but were later released
Last week, residents of Lismore Lawn, Lismore Park and Lismore Heights expressed serious concerns over intimidation and public order nuisance on the estate. The association is worried that children as young as 10 have been involved.
Speaking to WLR fm yesterday, Cllr Ryan said there is “no greater deterrent to crime” than having a Garda presence.
Areas in need could be identified by the local authority and gardaí could operate in the areas, establishing links and contacts.
