Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise an issue which I have discussed in the House a number of times in the last couple of years.I refer to the problem of antisocial behaviour in Eyre Square in the heart of Galway city. This has been an ongoing issue during the last two years. Although there have been quieter periods in that time, the problem has never been effectively addressed or stamped out. This situation cannot be allowed to persist.

I was born and raised 400 yards from Eyre Square, so I am familiar with the area. I spoke to residents and business owners there again in recent days. Residents told me of being in a state of fear and anxiety, especially at night. As Members will appreciate, businesses are already facing a challenge without people being reluctant to come to an area due to a growing reputation for hassle, antisocial behaviour, outdoor drinking and drug use, etc. Some incidents have had life-altering consequences. These include a young woman losing her sight in one eye. This happened while she was waiting for a bus after a firework was directed at her. Less than two weeks ago, on 12 October, a further incident occurred at 8:45 p.m. when a man was attacked. He was in hospital for a long time.

Something must change. Eyre Square is at the heart of our city. It is opposite the train and bus stations and is often the first impression visitors and tourists get of Galway. The city has largely been a happy and safe place to live and to visit and we cannot allow the actions of a small minority of people to alter this. After the situation on O'Connell Street in Dublin was highlighted by the media in recent weeks, a quick response followed. A Garda liaison office that was to open there has now been changed to a full Garda station. Pledges have also been made to allocate greater Garda resources to the area.

I do not like saying this, but the type of behaviour I have described has happened so often in Eyre Square that it is now a major issue in our city. This must be prioritised. It is not good enough for there to be one rule for Dublin city while Galway city, the capital of the west, is neglected. We need a similar response in our city. Eyre Square has an unused former tourism kiosk which would be an ideal location for a Garda substation. Research has shown that Garda visibility is vital in reducing crimes. An enhanced Garda presence in Eyre Square is essential to ensure the safety of the area. I would be grateful if the Deputy Leader would ask the Minister for Justice, Deputy McEntee, to join us in the House at her earliest convenience to address this vital issue for Galway city.