More gardaí needed, says mayor

I WISH to reply to the letter from Cathal McCarthy (June 20) headlined ‘Priest is right about city problems.’

As a public representative democratically elected by the people of ward 4 in Limerick, I — like other citizens — have the right to issue statements and avail of the local media whenever I deem it appropriate on a matter or issue of concern.

I am never too busy to defend my city and those various statutory, business, community and voluntary organisations that do so much good work in it.

Mr McCarthy’s letter is totally inaccurate and misrepresents the statement I issued as mayor in response, firstly, to the unfair, unbalanced and indeed irresponsible headline in a local newspaper and, secondly, to certain comments expressed by Fr JoeYoung.

For the headline following on from Fr Young’s comments to suggest that there was ‘anarchy’ across the city is simply not true.

I understand the concerns raised by Fr Young and indeed agree with some of his comments.

However, to imply that Limerick city council is to blame for all the ills in our housing estates, and that it is doing nothing about it, is totally unbalanced.

Unfortunately there are serious issues of criminality and anti-social behaviour in estates throughout the city. Regrettably, some people are forced to leave their homes due to intimidation, but law and order is a matter for the gardaí.

Contrary to Mr McCarthy’s opinion I have publicly supported the findings of, and even defended, and even defended, John Fitzgerald’s report in the local media and at city council meetings.

With this in mind, Mr McCarthy should be aware that the Labour Party has continually called for a real community garda force working on the ground with residents to combat crime.

It is essential that extra gardaí be provided and I have campaigned repeatedly on this issue.

The shortage of gardaí in Limerick cannot be blamed on the city council. The Government has responsibility for policing and law and order, and I find it strange that Mr McCarthy would have given his first preference vote to PD candidate Tim O’Malley if he was not voting for himself in the recent general election. Is he completely unaware that Michael McDowell of the PDs was justice minister for five years when Limerick was denied sufficient garda resources to deal with criminal activity and anti-social behaviour.

Politics is about people and working towards the creation of a fair, equal and safe society for all citizens.

As a democrat I will put my name before the people at the next local election and they will decide whether or not I am worthy to be a member of Limerick City Council.

Cllr Joe Leddin

Mayor of Limerick

City Hall

Limerick