Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge that the number has increased. An increase is an increase but there were 44 community gardaí in the division in 2009 and there are currently 14. There is a need for more gardaí. There have been more instances of anti-social behaviour in estates. The issue was discussed by Offaly county councillors during the week. There is a desperate and urgent need for more community gardaí. I would like to see the number triple by next year because for the number to decrease from 44 in 2009 to seven currently is just not acceptable. The figure needs to increase in order to help to prevent burglaries and to tackle the scourge of anti-social behaviour, which is affecting many communities, both urban and rural. It seemed to escalate during the lockdown in particular. The community policing models needs to be prioritised above all else. I acknowledge there has been an increase from seven to 14. An increase is an increase. I hope that will continue and that there will be genuine efforts to get the figure back up to where it needs to be. There needs to be more than 44 community gardaí in the area.

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