Antisocial behaviour - Worthwhile suggestion

CORK County Council is considering the introduction of procedures to combat antisocial behaviour.

Fine Gael councillor Deirdre Forde has suggested that those convicted of antisocial behaviour be forced to wear special overalls “designating their crime” and carry out community service to atone for it.

The council’s influential Joint Policing Committee (JPC) is to discuss such a proposal which, it is believed, has widespread support.

There is a growing sense of powerlessness in the face of increasing antisocial behaviour. The gardaí can only do so much and the courts may be reluctant to impose custodial sentences for relatively minor offences, especially as our prisons are so overcrowded. This proposal may offer a solution and is certainly worth considering.