Top garda speaks out, but why not others?

I MUST congratulate Supt Pat O’Sullivan of Tralee for his stand on late-night drinking.

We know the problems it causes only too well — murders, stabbings, assaults, fatal road accidents, domestic violence, sexual assaults, attacks on gardaí and ambulance personnel, as well as medical staff in A&Es.

The list seems endless.

Why should bars remain open until 2am or 3am? Nightclubs may stay open late, but close their bars at midnight. After all, if you cut off the fuel, the engine dies.

One of the most sinister aspects of this huge social problem is that when young people are under the influence of alcohol, they become easy prey for drug-pushers.

Why is Supt O’Sullivan left alone to highlight this issue? Where are the other garda chiefs who have similar problems in their divisions? Where are the politicians and the various social and other relevant bodies?

We are sick of listening to PJ Stone of the GRA moaning about the new Reserve. Why doesn’t he highlight the weekend attacks on ordinary gardaí? Could he not organise another Blue Flu to bring matters to a head? Finally, parents must also face up to their responsibilities and do their utmost to ensure their children’s good behaviour.

Jerry Connolly

Clondrohid

Macroom

Co Cork