Crime prevention is top of the agenda for Urlingford and Graine Community Alert group

CCTV cameras installed in Urlingford last summer have been instrumental in helping crack down on crime.
The AGM of the Urlingford and Graine Community Alert group recently took place and those present were informed that the CCTV footage from the cameras has been used as evidence on eight occasions so far.
Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Peter McConnon gave a very comprehensive report on crime statistics and over the last year burglaries in Kilkenny have being at an all-time low but added that there had been an increase in burglaries in the past two months. Sgt McConnon also gave different examples of cybercrime and warned people to be very cautious when receiving text messages and unsolicited telephone calls that may be fraudulent.
“If you suspect you have been the victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and also report to your local garda station. Fraudsters move fast, the quicker you contact your bank to safeguard your accounts the better,” he said.
Chairman of the Joint Policing Committee, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick also spoke and congratulated the committee for all their hard work in getting the cameras up and running. He said that is was a long and cumbersome project and great work to have the cameras now up and running.
The group chairman also appealed for donations for the ongoing costs of operation and maintenance of the CCTV cameras and also the text alert system which sends a text to each person on the mailing list if a crime has been committed in the area. It was put to the floor and it was agreed that a donation of €20 per household should cover ongoing expenses.
Vice-chairman, John Cahill gave a very comprehensive report on the text alert system and how it works. The text alert group is now ten years old and has 421 members and it was agreed that people who have moved to the area in recent years should be asked to join the group.
Chairman Dan Norton stepped down and Eugene Norton was proposed as new chairman on the committee. John Hayde Treasurer also stepped down and William Campion was named as incoming Treasurer.