Lack of gardaí in rural area of Kilkenny 'needs to be addressed urgently'

Kilkenny Fianna Fail Cllr Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere has expressed concern over the lack of garda numbers in the Thomastown policing district and its impact on community policing.

“The number of gardaí in the area remains insufficient to meet the growing demand," Cllr Cleere commented.

According to the Callan Thomastown Municipal District chairman, the current shortage of gardaí is affecting not only the safety and security of Thomastown and its neighbouring towns and villages such as Graignamanagh, Goresbridge, Ballyhale, Mullinavat to name but a few - but also their relationship with the gardaí.

"The lack of gardaí in the Thomastown area is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed urgently; it is having a negative impact on community policing, and residents are frustrated by the lack of visible garda presence in these towns."

Cllr Cleere suggested the solution here is a simple one. “We need more gardaí on the ground in Thomastown and it’s neighbouring sub stations to ensure that the area remains a safe place to live and work.”

Cleere concluded: “Kilkenny is a great place to live and work, but we must ensure it remains that way... we cannot afford to let crime rates increase and put the safety of our community at risk. It's time for the government to act, and for all of us to work together to make our towns a safer and more connected place."