As a devoted resident of Baile Átha Cliath, an lár – our vibrant Dublin city centre I am – deeply committed to ensuring that our city remains a safe and welcoming place for all. I have fond memories of Dublin town when working in the city in my 20’s and 30’s, experiencing its unique charm, bustling streets, and rich cultural heritage first-hand. Dublin was a place where people felt secure and could fully enjoy everything the city had to offer. However, to maintain this vibrancy, we must prioritise safety and security.
A Commitment to Safety
I love Dublin town, and I am passionate about advocating for a safer city centre where everyone can enjoy the vibrant life that Dublin has to offer. Safety is a fundamental right, and every resident and visitor should feel secure as they move about our beautiful city. This is why one of my primary focuses as a candidate for Dublin City Council is to enhance safety measures throughout the city.
Addressing the Reality of Our Streets
The reality is that Dublin, particularly areas like O’Connell Street, is facing significant challenges related to safety and public order. There has been a noticeable decline in public perceptions of safety, with fewer people feeling safe at night in north central Dublin compared to previous years. This stark drop reflects the urgent need for effective action.
Expanding Community Policing
One of the key strategies to improve safety in Dublin is to expand community policing. Community policing involves building strong relationships between the Gardaí and the communities they serve. By fostering trust and collaboration, we can create a proactive approach to crime prevention and ensure that the concerns of residents are heard and addressed.
I will endeavour to work closely with local Gardaí to ensure that community policing levels are increased. This means more Gardaí on the streets, engaging with residents, and being visible in our neighbourhoods. An increased Garda presence acts as a deterrent to crime and provides reassurance to the community that their safety is a top priority.
Enhancing Crime Prevention and Deterrent Measures
In addition to expanding community policing, it is essential to implement robust crime prevention and deterrent measures. With the recent opening of the €40 million Garda control centre at Heuston Station, we have a significant opportunity to enhance our safety infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility, which operates 24/7 and handles all 999 calls in Dublin, acts as a nerve centre for our Garda operations, offering a more responsive and efficient policing service.
The Garda control centre enables better coordination with Irish Rail, Dublin Fire Brigade, and the National Ambulance Service, ensuring a unified response to emergencies and incidents across the city. This facility also includes advanced CCTV monitoring, allowing for real-time surveillance and quicker response times to criminal activities.
We also need to support initiatives that encourage community involvement in safety efforts, such as neighbourhood watch programmes.
Working with the Joint Policing Committee
To further enhance safety, I plan to work closely with the Dublin City Joint Policing Committee (JPC). The JPC provides a vital forum where local authorities, senior Garda officers, Oireachtas members, and community interests can consult, discuss, influence, and make recommendations on policing and safety in the city. By participating actively in these committees, I aim to ensure that the specific needs and concerns of our community are addressed effectively.
A Collaborative Approach
Safety in Dublin cannot be achieved by one entity alone; it requires a collaborative approach. I am committed to working with various stakeholders, including local businesses, community groups, and residents, to develop and implement comprehensive safety strategies. By working together, we can identify the specific needs of different areas and tailor solutions that are effective and sustainable.
The Importance of Safe Spaces
A safe city is not only about preventing crime but also about creating environments where people feel secure and supported. This means ensuring that public spaces, parks, and transportation systems are safe for everyone, including women, children, and vulnerable individuals. It also involves addressing issues such as homelessness and substance abuse, which can impact the overall safety and well-being of the community.
My Pledge to Dublin City
As your candidate for Dublin City Council, I pledge to prioritise the safety of our city centre. I will advocate for increased Gardaí patrols, enhanced community policing, and the implementation of effective crime prevention measures. I believe that by working together, we can make Dublin an even safer place to live, work, and enjoy.
Let’s ensure that Dublin’s vibrant city life continues to thrive in a safe and secure environment. With your support, we can create a city where everyone feels safe and valued. Together, we can build a brighter and safer future for Dublin.
Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts on this important issue. Your support and engagement are crucial as we work towards making Dublin a safer city for all.
