ASBOs suggestion to target ‘untouchables’

By Jessica Quinn

THE chairman of Ennis’ Joint Policing Committee (JPC) has come out in support of the use of ASBOs (Anti-Social Behaviour Orders) to target a group of “untouchables” in Ennis’ town centre.

Councillor Paul O’Shea, chairman of the JPC, was speaking after a proposal was put forward by Councillor Johnny Flynn for greater use of ASBOs at this week’s meeting of Ennis Town Council. The proposal is now to be referred to the JPC, where the committee, which includes the gardaí in Ennis, will further discuss it.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Flynn called on the local authority to send out a strong message of “no messing in Ennis”. He proposed that the council “urgently recommend that a planned pilot scheme of greater usage of ASBOs for Ennis town centre area by the gardaí and the court services be implemented against criminal and public order offenders, including juvenile and other age groups of offenders”.

He added that following a half-year review, if successful, the pilot could be extended to other areas of Ennis.
He stated, “I have put forward this proposal to protect the good reputation of the town of Ennis. The homecoming was a huge success, which showcased Ennis positively and we are the first town in Ireland to achieve a Purple Flag. We need to protect what we have.”

He pointed out that Ennis’ crime rate is significantly lower than other towns of a similar size. However he went on, “I am concerned about a small group of untouchables, who are often young in age, who are putting at risk the good work that is being done. The solution is ASBO, which are available under the Criminal Justice Act; they would ensure this small group don’t ruin the good name of the town. As a town council, we need to send out a strong message. This is not a problem that’s unique to Ennis and it is only a small number of people involved but they are putting residents and visitors at risk. We need to start a campaign of no messing in Ennis,” he said.

Responding to the motion, town clerk Leonard Cleary said, “It is recommended that this proposal be referred to the Joint Policing Committee for detailed discussion. Ennis Town Council is working with the gardaí on an ongoing basis in relation to the specific current items raised in the motion.”

Councillor O’Shea told the meeting, “As chairman of the JPC, I am very much in support of this motion. I think there is a lot of fear in the community about these so-called untouchables.”

Councillor Michael Guilfoyle urged increased garda numbers and more powers to be given to them. “The gardaí are doing their best and until the Government sees to it that there are more gardaí on the streets, we may not get what Councillor Flynn is looking for.”

Councillor Mary Howard said she believes the proposal has “great potential”, while Councillor Peter Considine stated he would be interested to hear local gardaí’s views on the matter.

Meanwhile, Councillor Frankie Neylon urged people not to hesitate in contacting the gardaí’s confidential phone line if they are having difficulties with other residents.