SF: Policing forums can be community bridge

Policing forums can be a vital bridge between communities and the gardaí in tackling drugs and anti-social behaviour, Sinn Féin claimed today.

A total of 22 pilot Joint Policing Committees (JPCs) comprised of gardaí and local councillors were established a year ago to give the public an input into policing strategies in their areas.

The forums monitor crime and anti-social behaviour patterns in their catchment areas including problems linked to drug and alcohol abuse, anti-social behaviour and estate management issues.

Dublin JPC vice-chairman, Cllr Larry O’Toole said today that Sinn Féin wanted to help bridge the gap between working class communities and the gardai.

“If we can prove that the JPCs can be focused on resolving problems rather than talking shops – we will be very successful.

“With the right commitment from public representatives, gardaí, local authorities and local communities, they will be meaningful and will try to address some of the challenges and problems out there,” he added.

Sinn Féin representatives sitting on JPCs today met in Dublin to discuss a strategy to maximise the effectiveness of their work.

Artane councillor Mr O’Toole said that people must feel safe in their communities and believe that their problems are being listened to by gardai and being responded to.

Sinn Féin has also called for regular public meetings to be held where local problems and possible solutions can be discussed openly between members of the public and the JPC members.

Last summer the Government pledged €600,000 for the establishment of the JPCs in regional areas across the country.