ASSURANCES have been sought on the Garda response to “intense violence” in a number of recent incidents that have gone viral in videos on social media.
Deputy Joe Carey asked Clare’s most senior Garda about the issue at this week’s meeting of the Joint Policing Committee (JPC). Chief Superintendent Seán Colleran said some of the incidents have resulted in court appearances.
“You will be aware of a number of incidents that have been circulating on social media, with really intense violence being portrayed,” Deputy Carey told the Chief.
“I have fed that back to yourselves. Possibly, you’re not in a position to comment on those, with ongoing investigations, but it is a matter of concern in the community that this type of activity would be ongoing. I’d like if you could reassure the public today that An Garda Síochána are doing everything in your power to bring these people to justice.”
Responding, Chief Superintendent Colleran confirmed that the force is very aware of the videos.
“I know exactly what you’re talking about,” he told the Fine Gael member.
“Certainly, there was a lot of media coverage about escalation of feuds and tit for tat incidents. Just to confirm what the deputy has said, I can assure everyone here, everyone on the committee and everyone in Clare that we are very proactive in our investigation of these incidents.
“There has been significant progress on what has been published in the media. Those investigations are at an advanced stage. There are a number of people before the courts and as these incidents come to our attention, indeed by the time a lot of the media reporting of the incidents takes place, we certainly have already addressed certain aspects of those incidents.
“We are very, very proactive in how we respond. By the time they are reported on, we have a lot of people identified, before the courts or pending trial. I can give that assurance as Chief Superintendent for the Division of Clare.”
Meanwhile, Councillor Pat Daly welcomed news that Superintendent John Galvin is to meet Ennis council members over recent incidents in the county town.
“There has been anti-social behaviour on the streets of Ennis in recent times,” the Fianna Fáil said. “I believe that Superintendent Galvin will be attending Municipal District.
The situation has gotten national news and it’s not good for the town of Ennis and I would hope that we would have discussions at the meeting with a view to improving things.”
Superintendent Galvin confirmed: “I will attend the meeting and I will address any questions or concerns raised”.