Asbos sought against eight women

Limerick gardaí are seeking antisocial behaviour orders against eight women alleged to be involved in prostitution in the city.

It is the first time gardaí have taken this approach to tackle the issue of prostitution on the streets of Limerick.

The application, at Limerick District Court yesterday, was made in respect of eight women, most of whom are from Romania.

The women are accused of breaching Garda warning notices where they were asked to move from the Catherine St and Upper Cecil St areas of the city centre.

Gardaí are now seeking antisocial behaviour orders, which, if successful, could compel the women to stay away from certain areas for up to two years.

The application was adjourned at Limerick District Court until Sept 26 to allow for disclosure of documents to the defence.