Gardaí respond to youth worker’s claims of harassment and brutality

GARDAÍ have responded to allegations of “harassment and brutality” made against them by a senior member of a youth group.

The Base youth centre in Ballyfermot, Dublin, addressed the Oireachtas Health Committee on Thursday, when claims were made that Garda abuse of young people in the area was “widespread”.

Amel Yacef, youth co-ordinator at The Base, alleged youth workers had witnessed the abuse and claimed it was taking place “every night”.

Ms Yacef repeatedly made the allegations, in an initial address and again during questioning by a number of deputies, who were shocked by the claims. The youth centre’s chief executive Sharon Kelly also attended, but did not comment.

A Garda statement said yesterday: “Gardaí in the Clondalkin District are engaged with members of the community on a number of levels and are committed to the establishment and maintenance of positive working relationships with all members of the community and with those involved with community initiatives such as the Base.

“Any member of the public who wishes to make a specific complaint is advised to contact the Garda authorities or the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission.”

One deputy at the committee, Denis Naughten, repeatedly questioned Ms Yacef about her claims.

Three deputies praised local gardaí and Labour’s Robert Dowds said he knew the local superintendent was “most anxious” to provide the best police service.