Sinn Féin policing committee to discuss crime fight

Sinn Féin members from joint policing committees throughout the country will today discuss how they can be best used to tackle crime.

The Government last summer pledged €600,000 for the establishment of 22 pilot joint policing committees nationwide, composed of gardai and local councillors.

The groups hold open meetings to allow members of the public and interest groups an input into policing strategies in their areas.

The committees also monitor patterns of crime and anti-social behaviour in their catchment areas, including problems linked to drug and alcohol abuse.

They make recommendations to local Garda management about the use of Garda resources in combating any crime and public order trends.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, a party spokesman said: “Sinn Féin views the joint policing committees as key avenues of engagement with communities who must be at the core of the fight against criminality.”

The meeting will take place at Sinn Féin headquarters in Parnell Square.