Anti-Social Behaviour
Anti-Social Behaviour
What is Anti-Social Behaviour?
Examples of anti-social behaviour are:
Drug Dealing
Intimidation or harassment
Assault
Vandalism
Joyriding
Noisy Behaviour
Verbal abuse
Graffiti
What can I do about anti-social behaviour in my estate?
First of all don’t assume the Council already knows about it. You should report any details of anti-social behaviour to the County Council’s Estate Management Section and An Garda Síochána. The telephone numbers are outlined below.
When reporting an incident you need to give full details of the complaint i.e. when it happened (date and time), the location, what happened, names/addresses of those involved (if available). Complaints can be put in writing, in person to an Official from the Estate Management Section or you can use the Freephone number 1800 333 444.
Complaints are dealt with confidentially.
What happens if I make a complaint about anti-social behaviour?
All complaints are investigated by the Council.
This involves:-
Interviews with people who are alleged to be involved in anti-social behaviour. In incidents where complaints are substantiated a written warning is issued.
Liaising with An Garda Síochána and other relevant bodies.
In cases where a problem persists the Council may take the following actions:-
Request a tenant to apply for an Excluding Order against a family member involved in anti-social behaviour. Such an Order excludes the particular family member from the Council dwelling and usually from the entire estate. The Council could apply for an Excluding Order.
OR
The Council may take Court Proceedings in order to repossess the dwelling.
When you were allocated your house by the Council you became more than a tenant. You became a member of the community in which you live.
The Council is trying with your co-operation to put a stop to anti-social behaviour.
You can be assured that your complaint will always be treated with the utmost confidentiality and that your name will not be mentioned in following up on your complaint.
Contact Numbers and Addresses
Estate Management Section, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15
FREEPHONE 1800 333 444
County Telephone Numbers for Dublin 15: 01-890 5406 / 5410 / 5017 / 5397
County Telephone Numbers for North County: 01-890 5405 / 5415 / 5385 / 5386
Other Useful Numbers
An Garda Síochána, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15. Tel: 01-666 7000
An Garda Síochána, Howth, Dublin 13. Tel: 01-666 4900
An Garda Síochána, Santry, Dublin 9. Tel: 01-666 4000
An Garda Síochána, Swords, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01-666 4700
An Garda Síochána, Skerries , Co. Dublin. Tel: 01-849 1211
An Garda Síochána, Coolock, Dublin 17. Tel: 01-666 4200
An Garda Síochána, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01-802 0510
An Garda Síochána, Malahide, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01-666 4600
An Garda Síochána, Raheny, Dublin 5. Tel: 01-666 4300
Safer Blanchardstown public Meeting.2 Mulhuddart June 14th 2011
| 1. 0Present: | Liam Burke- Fingal County Council
Ann Marie Farrelly- Fingal County Council Sarah Moonan - Fingal County Council Insp John Kelly - Gardaí Sgt Vincent Connelly- Gardaí Breffni O’Rourke- RAPID (Chair) Philip Jennings- Safer Blanchardstown (Facilitator) |
| 2. 0 Welcome | 2.1 Cha 2.1Chair welcomed everyone, presented list of issues from
last meeting and informed residents that Fingal County Council and Gardaí would present a progress report for the last 12 mths. Chair paid the meetings respect to the late Brian Lenihan TD, RIP |
| 3.0 Rules | Phillip informed residents of the rules of the meeting and made a brief presentation on behalf of Mulhuddart Community Youth Project entitled “Crime-watch Mulhuddart” and introduced their Car Restoration Project |
| 4.0 Garda
Report |
4.1 Insp J Kelly informed residents of new Garda Superintendent ,Pat Calvin
4.2 There are four (4) community Gardaí assigned to the Mulhuddart area. 4.3 Extra Gardaí on duty at Halloween and this had a very positive affect 4.4 Operation Rapid was launched in the Mulhuddart area and involved higher visibility, increased patrols, check points, searches and stopping of known suspects. The operation was planned for a 10/12 day period but will continue into July in Mulhuddart 4.5 The Garda clinic in the community centre will also meet in local school so that parents dropping/picking up children at school can speak to Gardaí if they wish. 4.6 In order to address residents issues relating to phone not being answered in the station a full time receptionist has been employed 9 to 5, to answer the phone during office hours. 4.7 The number of calls to Blanchardstown Station are 20% higher then other stations 4.8 There is a new processing and dispatch system in place which should improve response times 4.9 4.10 Statistics:
4.11 Any person before the courts can apply for and get bail, it is entirely at the discretion of the judge on the day. 4.12 Gardaí need sufficient information and more importantly evidence in order to reduce the chance for offenders, especially repeat offenders, in getting bail
|
| 5.0 Fingal
County Council Report |
5.1 Liam Burke Fingal County Council Housing/Community gave a
Presentation on policy and responsibility 5.2 Copies of Fingal County Council ASB Strategy were made available for residents but copies had already been delivered to every home in Council housing estates. 5.3 FCC works with the Garda and local residents through the various committees and agencies in the area to provide help and support with issues and plans for improving the area. 5.4 Work has been done in relation to cars driving to fast by having ramps on the roads. 5.5 The parks dept has been working with residents and the local school and community project in relation to reclaiming the park. Planting days and clean ups were arranged. 5.6 Community games were held and a family day was also organized. 5.7 FCC acknowledged the work, help and support from local residents and agencies in making this happen. 5.8 The works are continuing in the park and the hope is to return the football clubs and youth groups back into the park. 5.9 Works carried out in Wellview were high quality and up grading will continue 5.10 It is tenant’s responsibility to paint walls and replace windows 5.11 House painting is on a rota system 5.12 Removal of rubbish from vacant houses and gardens will be carried out. 5.13 Grass verges will be cut by Fingal County Council. |
| 6.0 Responses form residents | 6.1 People angry and frustrated
6.2 Calls for Fingal County Council to fix their homes not plant trees were echoed in the room. 6.3 Lots has been done by FCC and Gardaí but the level if intimidation and fear is a barrier for residents participating in their community. 6.4 ASB in Mulhuddart is higher then other areas of Blanchardstown. 6.5 Need to collate info on perpetrators in Mulhuddart and target these individuals 6.6 Turn around empty houses ASAP so that they do not become magnets for ASB 6.7 No out of hours service in FCC but Mulhuddart needs one 6.8 FCC need to look at breaches of tenancy with residents and enforce their policy relation to such breaches 6.9 Tyrrelstown have same problems but on a smaller scale 6.10 It is important to ring and report all ASB to the FCC/Gardaí and give as much detail as you can. 6.11 People’s confidence is at an all time low. 6.12 Issues of ASB and intimidation are escalating 6.13 Some residents have been forced to leave their homes due to fear and a feeling of getting nowhere, 6.14 There is a lack of services and agencies working together 6.15 There is a lot of intimidation and fear in all areas of Mulhuddart including the Nurseries and Parslickstown Court 6.16 ASB is on the rise with gangs hanging around 6.17 Cars driving at speed all hours of day and night spreading fear in the community 6.18 It was suggested that a CCTV system in Mulhuddart would alleviate a lot of the problems in the area |
| 7.0 Comments | 7.1 Nuala Kane Mulhuddart LCDP Project committed to working with FCC, Garda
and local residents to help build community participation and relationships. 7.2 Vincent Wellview Green HSE: Wellview engage with many young people and their families experiencing ASB. The affects ASB has on children is hugely important this is real for these families. Agencies need to be aware of this to stand together and unite against ASB 7.3 There are residents groups and they need to work together to help community have a stronger voice |
| Phillip passed meeting back to Chair who thanked all present & closed meeting |
Public Forum Meeting Blakestown/Mountview Tuesday 5th October 2010
Public Forum Meeting Blakestown/Mountview Tuesday 5th October 2010
Present: Chair: Breffni O Rourke
Facilitator: Philip Jennings
Gardaí: Inspector John Kelly
Sergeant Nicola Brady
2 Community Gardaí
Fingal County Council Ruairi O’Dulaing (Parks)
Apologies: Paul Donnelly Safer Blanchardstown Community Rep
Minute taker: Tanya Brunt (Blakestown CDP)
In attendance: Cllr Matt Waine
Attendance: 20-25
1.0 Introductions:
Breffni O Rourke opened meeting by welcoming all present. Chair related to meeting the main issues which arose when last public meeting took place in Blakestown/Mountview area (Sept 09) i.e.
- Drug taking & Dealing,
- Reports of licence breeches
-
Restructuring of Garda Clinics
-
Careless parking at schools
-
Illegal dumping & skips
-
Graffiti
- Scrambler bikes in public open spaces
Chair asked Council and Gardaí to address progress on these issues in their report. Chair handed meeting over to Philip.
Philip explained the rules of the meeting to people and stressed the importance that no names may be given publicly. People are encouraged to voice their concerns and issues during the meeting but to speak in private to Fingal County Council and the Gardaí after the meeting if they have any confidential information they wish to pass on.
2.0 Garda report:
2.1 Inspector Kelly reported to the meeting that there are now 20 Gardaí and 2 sergeants
at present in the Community Policing section
2.2 Gardaí remain 100% committed to community policing and to tackling issues
identified by members of the community.
2.2 In order to facilitate this there has been a
restructuring of roster working times in the community policing unit which has
proven to be beneficial in tackling issues and in increasing Garda presence in all
areas.
2.4 License inspections are more frequent in Blanchardstown than any other area.
2.5 Junior cert night was calmer than normal. This was due in no small part to the Gardaí
pro-actively calling in to each off-licence advising them to be aware that young
people may try to purchase alcohol. Gardaí also warned licensees that they would be
watching closely for any breeches of the liquor licensing Act.
2.6 A plan is in place for Halloween and Gardaí are working closely with Fingal County
Council to reduce the number of bonfires this year
2.7 Over the past 3 months records prove a drop in arrests and although cutbacks have
been made the community police remain committed to their work.
3.0 Feedback from residents to Garda Report
3.1 Residents welcomed Garda Report
4.0 Issues for Gardaí
4.1 Bottles are continuously being broken on Fortlawn Avenue, across from Salmons
Public House and Off-licence by youth drinking (Underage Drinking); this has now
led to breaking windows of houses.
4.2 People underage are being sold alcohol. It was suggested that the off licenses use a
bag system where bags are coded and off licenses can be identified.
4.3 Residents reported that Drugs are being sold in the field on Fortlawn Avenue and that
syringes have been found in the bushes at the entrance to Blakestown senior school
on a number of occasions. (Residents to speak to Gardaí in private after meeting)
4.4 Young person produced sharp weapon (Knife) on an adult in Hillbrook Woods. Can
young people be searched?
4.5 Illegal and Careless Parking at Schools and on public pavements adjacent to schools
is a continuous problem for residents living close to schools in the area.
4.6 Burglaries that are taking place in the area seem to be seasonal and with the
transition from autumn to winter and darker evenings & nights residents are
concerned that burglaries will increase.
4.7 Fireworks are becoming an increasingly worrying problem for neighbours as they
sound like bombs going off and can do a lot of damage if put through a letter box. A
house in Sheepmore had a window broken after a firework was thrown at the house.
4.8 Bullets fired at house in Fortlawn was possibly a mistaken identity (resident to speak
to Gardaí in private after meeting)
5.0 Garda Response
5.1 Garda will investigate and monitor Underage Drinking in the area and try to catch
the culprits who are breaking bottles in the area
5.2 The Bag System was initiated in another area and proved to be a success although the
initiative did have its limitations. Gardaí are looking at different ideas and options
for the Blanchardstown area one of which is to encourage the National Age Card as
the only form of identification at point of sale.
5.3 Gardaí will pass on information relating to selling of drugs to their drugs unit who
will investigate thoroughly Philip will inform Blakestown/Mountview Community
Drugs Team of the reported needle find and insure that they are fully aware of the
problem
5.4 Gardaí are unable to search young children under the age of 12. But if they have
reason to believe a particular child needs to be searched or is carrying an offensive
weapon such as a knife, they will be brought to the station along with their parents
and will be searched.
-
-
Gardaí are involved in an ongoing initiative to tackle this issue which targets
-
Careless Parking at Schools on a rotating, though random basis. This is in order not
to allow those who park illegally to be able to predict when Gardaí will target any
particular school. Any car found to be blocking footpaths or driveways will be
ticketed.
-
- Gardaí said that they continue to successfully combat Burglaries in the
Blanchardstown area but Gardaí cannot predict where and when burglaries will take
place. One of the best ways to prevent burglaries is for neighbours to watch out for
each others property and immediately report any suspicious persons or activity to
the Gardaí. The Neighbourhood Watch scheme is being re-launched in
Blanchardstown and residents are encouraged to arrange to become part of the
scheme for their area.
-
- Blanchardstown Gardaí are working closely with Gardaí from the inner city in order
to try to stem the flow of Fireworks. The inner city is where the majority of
fireworks are coming from.
Action: Philip to inform Blakestown/Mountview Community Drugs Team of the
reported needle find and insure that they are fully aware of the problem
6.0 Fingal County Council Report:
6.1 Quality Bus Corridor work on Blakestown Way is now finished, some landscaping
work still needs to be done and a plan for this is underway which will be carried out
in the planting season from Oct-March.
6.2 Multi use games area in Whitestown is proving a great success and Fingal County
Council would like to extend their thanks to Blakestown CDP and local residents for
support with this initiative. Some minor work still to be done in the vicinity of the
games area e.g. foot paths to be fixed, this is ongoing and will be completed soon.
-
- Hartstown Park, at present there is a draft master plan to enhance and utilise the facilities and help improve every aspect of the park i.e. entrances and exits,
footpaths, pitches.
6.4 It is envisaged that in order to progress the issues, improve the look, build a sport
facility etc we will need to consult with sports clubs, scouts and any interested local
groups/clubs. This will happen over time through planning and public consultation.
6.5 Halloween preparations are underway and as already stated Fingal County Council
are working closely with the Gardaí and plans are in place.
6.6 Fingal County Council continues to respond to calls regarding materials hidden for
bomb fires and remove same. Residents are encouraged to report any stock-piling of
bonfire material as soon as it is noticed to the Council.
6.7 Millennium Park will continue to be improved mainly as a result of income generated
from the park i.e. money paid by funfairs and circus is put back into the park.
6.8 The park is at present undergoing some reinstatement of verges and other repair work
due to heavy usage.
6.9 A new all-weather football pitch is under construction in the park and new out
door fitness equipment will be installed soon.
6.10 Ruairi stated that if any issues raised were relevant to housing or environment he
will bring the issues back to those departments.
Action: Landscaping to be carried out in the planting season form Oct-March.
7.0 Feedback from residents to Council Report
7.1 Residents welcomed the report
8.0 Fingal County Council Issues
8.1 Numbers 61 & 62 Fortlawn Avenue are both Boarded up Houses and are being used
to stockpile material for bonfires Residents are afraid that the whole lot including the
house and those living close to it will be set on fire. One of these houses is privately
owned and the landlord should be made to take responsibility for property.
*NB it was noted by chair that this was reported as a problem last year s well.
8.2 Residents wondered if over the Halloween period there is a record made of where
stock piling of material for bonfires is being kept and are their ongoing checks made
from year to year at obvious places of storage. If resources are at a minimum a
suggestion was made to close all the parks and use park rangers to enhance the
number of personnel on Halloween clean up.
8.3 Anti-Social behaviour is a repetitive problem. Fingal County Council needs to
develop a strategic plan to tackle the ongoing issue of anti-social behaviour.
8.4 One answer to the problem of people holding on to large items of furniture etc is for
the council to provide free skips as they did in the past. This would allow for
residents to dispose of large bulky household items such as chairs & sofas in an
appropriate manner.
8.5 Can CCTV be installed in the area as a response or deterrent to anti-social behaviour?
8.6 Resident finding dumped waste outside home but has to pay at recycling centre to get
rid of this rubbish. Resident felt that Litter Wardens are very unsympathetic when
dealing with this issue.
9.0 Council Response:
9.1 Fingal County Council will look into this as part of the planned response to
Halloween and will pass on residents concerns relating to Boarded up Houses of to
housing section
9.2 As stated by the Gardaí there is a plan in place for Halloween which includes the
Gardaí & Housing, Parks and Environment sections of Fingal County Council
working together to tackle this issue. One part of the plan is to target areas previously
used to store material and any newer locations that are reported to the Council.
Overtime for staff to work over the weekend of Halloween has been approved so
staffing levels should not be a problem. Both FCC and Gardaí will ensured that
regardless of a small reduction in resources, the same or higher level of commitment
will be used to tackle issues on Halloween.
9.3 Fingal County Council Housing department is at present developing an Anti-social
behaviour strategy that will apply to all Fingal tenants.
9.4 This issue of the provision of frees skips will be brought to the Environment dept.
9.5 In the Corduff area this was done but funding for this type of initiative has dried up.
There is CCTV in Millennium Park which is recorded and not live but does work as a
deterrent. It is unlikely that CCYV will be installed in the foreseeable future.
9.6 The problems of residents finding waste outside door and issues with Litter
Wardens will be brought to the Environment dept.
10.0 Issues for Safer Blanchardstown
`10.1 Resident wished to know how the Community Policing Forum can keep
women safe in the area?
11.0 Safer Blanchardstown Response
10.1 We will continue to work in supporting partners to develop initiatives with the
aim of keeping all citizens safe especially women.
11.0 Close
11.1 Philip thanked the Huntstown community centre for the use of the hall for this evening meeting and again reminded residents that the Gardaí will make themselves available if residents wish to speak to them confidentially. The audience were also reminded of the Dial to Stop Drug Dealing confidential number and encouraged to use the number to report suspicious activity.
11.2 Philip passed meeting back to chair.
11.3 Chair thanked Residents, Community reps, Garda partners Fingal County Council and Scoil Mhuire for participation and support. Chair assured audience that issues would be followed up by relevant agencies and feedback would be provided locally on progress.
End
Public forum Meeting Corduff Tuesday 13th July 2010
Public forum Meeting Corduff Tuesday 13th July 2010
Present: Chairperson Philip Keegan
Facilitator Philip Jennings
Gardaí: Inspector John Kelly
Garda Niall Phelan,
Garda Sinéad Ní Mhuircheartaigh
Fingal County Council:
Gene Griffin, Housing Dept.
Ruairi O’Dulaing. Parks Dept
Tommie McManus, Transportation Dept
Corduff Community Rep: Alan Byrne
In Attendance: Cllr Kieran Dennison,
Cllr Dave McGuinness
Cllr Pat Nulty
Minute taker: Garda Sinéad Ní Mhuircheartaigh
APOLOGIES: Breffni O’Rourke, Chair Safer Blanchardstown
1.0 Introduction:
Philip Keegan gave a brief overview of the meetings to date and of the issues raised at the last meeting held in Corduff (November 2009) which included:
- Garda Response times
- Increase in Burglaries
- Drug dealing in Sheephill
- Vacant Houses in Sheephill
- Drinking Corduff Laneway
- Lack of engagement with Resident Associations
Chair asked Council and Gardaí to address progress on these issues in their report. Chair handed meeting over to Philip Jennings.
Philip explained the rules of the meeting and stressed the importance that no names are given publicly. People are encouraged to voice their concerns and issues during the meeting but to speak privately to Fingal County Council and the Gardaí after the meeting if they have any confidential information they wish to pass on.
2.0 Garda Report
2.1 Inspector Kelly introduced himself and new Community Gardaí Sinéad &
Niall who have recently been assigned to the Corduff area.
2.2 Crime statistics for the Corduff area from 1/1/10 to 31/6/10 were gone through
as follows.
2.3 There have been 14 burglaries in this period, according to statistics this type of
crime has decreased by 15% and is relatively low compared to the wider
Blanchardstown area.
2.4 There was one case of aggravated burglary where the culprit entered a home
by force and caused distress to occupants. With the cooperation of the
Community the culprit was apprehended shortly after the incident. Inspector
Kelly commended the residents involved in assisting the Gardaí on that night.
2.5 There have been a number of Public Order incidents along with persons
Arrested for Drug possession and sale and supply of same in the Corduff area
during this period. These persons are currently being dealt with through the
Courts.
2.6 The amount of persons, vehicles and premises searched under the relevant
legislation has increased since the beginning of the year by Gardaí in the
Corduff area in general.
2.7 Anti-social behaviour in the laneway behind the shops is ongoing and a cause
of concern for residents living in the vicinity and people passing down the
lane Gardaí are working with Fingal County Council and other partners to
address this ongoing issue.
2.8 The e-mail address for community Gardaí isBlanchardstowncommunity@garda.ie if residents wish to contact Gardaí or provide information through the email they are welcome to do so.
3.0 Feedback from residents to Garda report
3.1 Residents welcomed Garda Report
4.0 Issues for Gardaí
4.1 Can or do the Gardaí monitor the CCTV around the lane in Corduff
4.2 The issue of the length of time it takes the Gardaí to Respond to calls to the station was raised and residents stated that sometimes Gardaí fail to respond at all.
4.3 Residents wished to know if there is a Garda clinic in the area and if so where
is it held and at what time.
4.4 Residents stated that there are identifiable areas or “hot spots” of anti-social
behaviour in the area that have been well reported in the past and wished to
know is there nothing that can be done about this?
4.5 What Can the Gardaí do about the amount of young people drinking in the
Area?
4.6 It was reported that a gang of children were getting into the Sports Centre at
night when it is locked up as it is easy to climb under the gates. Residents
concerned for safety of children and wish for this to be monitored and the
possibility of further securing gates surrounding the Centre to deter this to be
investigated.
5.0 Garda Response:
5.1 Talks are underway to link the CCTV monitoring feed into Blanchardstown
Garda Station. This should improve detections and prevent further public
order issues arising in the vicinity
5.2 New procedures are in place to improve Garda Response times. All calls are
prioritised in terms of the most serious incident, Gardaí are often directed to
deal with the more pressing matter first. Often an unmarked car deals with
incidents and residents do not realise this. Measures are in place to improve
this further.
5.3 The Garda clinic is held in the Corduff Sports Centre, Corduff every
Tuesday evening 7pm-8pm. Gardaí are looking to see if they can improve
this service to the community. For instance, if there is a demand for persons
needing passports signed this may be dealt with at the clinic. It was suggested
that the Garda Clinic could be advertised in the Insight Magazine that is
delivered across homes in RAPID areas of Blanchardstown. Gardaí will
look into this with distributors of the magazine.
5.4 Often these “hot spot” problems are dealt with by Gardaí in a particular area
and the problem then moves to a different area. Information from the
community is always welcomed in reporting anti-social behaviour in the area.
5.5 Fingal on the spot fines has been issued by Community Gardaí since the beginning of July 2009. Other youths involved in this behaviour under the age of 18 have been dealt with by way of JLO.
5.6 Action: Philip to contact sport’s Centre in relation to securing gates.
Inspector Kelly invited any persons at the meeting who wish to speak with Gardaí after the meeting confidentially or otherwise are welcome to do so.
6.0 Fingal County Council Report:
6.1 Gene Griffin provided the following report and up date from last meeting
6.2 Reports regarding the grease coming from vents behind Chinese Takeaway
needs to be dealt with by HSE or Dept of environment. This is not an issue for
Fingal County Council.
6.3 Any reports of criminal behaviour in Council Houses that come to the attention
of Fingal County Council are reported immediately to Gardaí.
6.4 Anti-social behaviour taking place in Corduff lane was examined with a view to
closing the lane to prevent such behaviour. However strong representations
were made against closing the laneway and for reasons of access the laneway
will remain as is.
6.5 CCTV monitoring for the laneway is to be reviewed.
6.6 Proposals for closure of the steps area where people congregate will need
further consultation. The removal of overgrown shrubs in the area at the top of
the lane is also under consideration.
6.7 Litter pick is done by Fingal Co. Co. every 7 days in Corduff. Due to budget
restraints this may reduce, this area gets more litter picks than other areas.
6.8 The Council would encourage the community to assist in keeping their own
areas tidy.
6.9 Some programme of works projects were affected by cutbacks. However
housing maintenance funding was not cut back and projects continue as
planned.
There are 5 dwellings vacant in Corduff at the moment, none are vacant in Sheephill.
7.0 Feedback from Fingal County Council report
7.1 Residents welcomed Fingal County Council report
8.0 Issues for Fingal County Council:
8.1 The issue of horses in the area was raised by young people in the audience
who were concerned about the manner in which horses were being impounded
and the cost of having them returned.
8.2 A request was made by adults in the audience for facilities for children in the
area to keep horses for example a Pony Club to be established in the area in
which to learn about animal welfare and to keep horses.
8.3 Some residents were concerned about the safety issues around horses being
tethered on public open space.
8.4 Residents of Corduff Park were particularly irate and annoyed at having been
made to wait for approximately 10years for the Council to honour an
agreement they claim was made when their houses were being turned around
in Corduff Park.
8.5 Residents maintain they were promised that their initial front door would be
replaced by a proper back door as the final part of the turnaround process.
8.6 Residents were particularly incensed by this issue as they maintain that many
promises made in this regard have been broken.
8.7 Residents stated that reports made through their residents association of the
doors at present being in a poor state of repair and a security hazard have
been completely ignored.
8.8 Residents believe that present budgetary conditions should not account for
lack of progress on this issue as they were informed in the beginning that the
money to complete the turnaround was earmarked or ring-fenced.
9.0 Fingal County Council response:
9.1 In the past 4 to 5 weeks Fingal County Council has been receiving complaints
relating to horses being tied up on public open space from residents in the area.
The public are asking the Council to take action on this matter. The Control of
Horses legislation is to be utilised and there is an onus on the Council to act on
complaints received.
9.2 Residents are worried about the safety of their children and the damage to the
green spaces done by horses.
9.3 Horses will only be returned upon the payment of the appropriate fine along
with proof of facilities to look after the animal’s welfare properly. Elected
Local and Community representatives are willing to work with the young people
concerned and adult volunteers within the community to investigate the
possibility of developing properly run and supervised facilities for horses.
9.4 Gene stated that he was unaware of any agreement having been
made and said that he would check this out and get pack to residents.
9.5 Gene explained about current financial position within Fingal County Counciland the many calls on this limited budget not just form Blanchardstown but fromacross the county. He is not sure if money has been put aside for thereplacement of front doors to back doors in Corduff Park
9.6 Gene said he id not aware of any promises been made or broken and he assured Residents that Fingal County Council is not in the business of breaking promises made.
9.7 Gene again assured residents that their concerns were not beingignored and that he will check with Council rep on Residents Association and reply to residentsthrough their residents associations.
9.8 Gene said that he would check and see if any ring fencing orearmarking of
funds has been arranged and will inform residents of the current position
through their residents association
9.9 Cllr Patrick Nulty stated that although he understood residents anxiety it is local
County Councillors, not council staff, who are responsible for the setting of budgets within the Council. Council staff agree to work after hours, with no overtime payment, to come to public meetings. It is unfair for them to have to try to answer question of this nature which relate to substantive budget allocations.
9.10 Gene welcomed representations on Corduff Lane directly or via Councillors.
10.0 Close
10.1 Philip thanked the Scouts for the use of the hall for this evenings meeting and again reminded residents that the Gardaí and Fingal County Council will make themselves available if residents wish to speak to them confidentially. The audience were also reminded of the Dial to Stop Drug Dealing confidential number and encouraged to use the number to report suspicious activity.
10.2 Philip passed meeting back to chair.
10.3 Chair thanked Residents, Community reps, Garda and Council partners for participation and support. Chair assured audience that issues would be followed up by relevant agencies and feedback would be provided locally on progress.
End
Public Forum Meeting Mulhuddart Wed 23rd June 2010
Public Forum Meeting Mulhuddart Wed 23rd June 2010
Present:
Chair: Breffni O’Rourke
Facilitator: Phillip Jennings
Gardaí: Sergeant Nicola Brady and 2 Community Gardaí
Fingal County Council: Liam Burke, Sarah Noonan:
Drugs Task Force: Ann Losty:
Minute Taker: Ann Osborne: Mulhuddart Community Development Project
In attendance: Cllrs Ruth Coppinger, Patrick Nulty and Kieran Dennison
Attendance: 50 -60
1.0 Introductions:
Breffni O Rourke opened meeting by welcoming all present. Chair related to meeting the main issues which arose when last public meeting took place in Mulhuddart area (June 09) i.e.
- Access to Garda Station,
- Number of incidents of anti-social behaviour responded to and addressed,
- Response to enquiries,
-
Garda Responsible Parking at School initiative
- Children’s safety
Chair thanked outgoing community representative Bernie Tyson for her hard work and commitment to the Forum and its development. Chair asked Council and Gardaí to address progress on these issues in their report. Chair handed meeting over to Philip.
Philip explained the rules of the meeting to people and stressed the importance that no names may be given publicly. People are encouraged to voice their concerns and issues during the meeting but to speak in private to Fingal County Council and the Gardaí after the meeting if they have any confidential information they wish to pass on.
2.0 Garda report:
2.1 Sergeant Brady gave a perspective of the Garda issues and priorities on the ground over the past 12mths and stated that the Gardaí are looking forward to working together with the community and other partners to address issues of concern to residents into the future.
3.0 Feedback from residents to Gardaí report:
3.1 Drinking in parks and other public open spaces is an ongoing problem for the area and residents cannot understand why Alcohol can’t be taken off youths by the Gardaí and why they cannot be fined on the spot
3.2 Youth’s drinking on the roundabout in Parslickstown was a huge health and safety issue as they had table and chairs placed on the roundabout. A call was made to the Garda station from the Community Development Project (CDP) but there was no response. After three calls Gardaí eventually drove up to Parslickstown but drove straight past the youths without stopping. Nuala Kane from CDP followed the Gardaí and spoke to them. Only then did they respond to the issue and approach the young people drinking on the roundabout.
3.3 The community feel that there is a Lack of respect from Gardaí when dealing with issues in the area. One resident reported that there is ongoing anti-social behaviour in the vicinity of the football pitch for over 2 yrs and there has been no response from the Gardaí or the Council
3.4 Resident stated that there is a feeling that Issues are not being properly addressed and the community is being neglected by the Gardaí. Resident feels that the community are going round in circles for the last 25 yrs.
3.5 The lack of Feedback to the community from the Gardaí is very poor and residents feel that it boils down to money not been spent in disadvantaged areas. Residents feel that higher powers within the Gardaí and Fingal County Council make the decisions to apply resources elsewhere and not in Mulhuddart.
3.6 Residents could name 10 local people who are Continually ruining the area and want to know what systems, if any, are in place for dealing with them.
3.7 Garda patrols need to challenge groups and Check to see what they are up to and not just drive past.
3.8 Older persons in Parslickstown reported that youths regularly sit on their walls and up on the roofs of their homes. People are living in fear of their safety as these youths, who are aged between 10/12yrs, are constantly engaged in anti-social behaviour.
3.9 People feel Disheartened and feel that lack of response from both the Gardaí and Fingal County Council are killing what little community spirit is left in them
3.10 There is no response to Calls made to Garda station and emails to the station go unanswered there is a communication issue between the Gardaí and local residents.
3.11 Not enough information available or on display in relation to Garda clinics locations, times etc.
3.12 Tom Maloney Wellview/Parslickstown residents group named the positive outcomes from developing a relationship with Keith the community Garda and encouraged all residents to approach and get to know their community Gardaí.
3.13 An older person, whose hall door was deliberately broken, had youths shouting abuse through her letterbox also had damage caused to her garden gate and pillar. This lady says that after her stroke she got very poor service from the Gardaí, due to stroke induced speech impairment, but since she explained her situation at one of the Safer Blanchardstown Public Forum meetings she has since got good response from Gardaí.
4.0 Garda Response
4.1 Alcohol can and is regularly taken off young people under 18years of age. The young person will then be brought home to their parents and depending on family situation or response HSE may be contacted. Gardaí can take drink from persons over 18 if they are caught drinking in public open space and on the spot fine is issued.
4.2 In response to the issue of Youths drinking on the roundabout Sgt Brady stated that there are 3 response cars in Blanchardstown and calls are stacked in order of serious incidents and priority. She was un-aware of this incident and will speak to Nuala at the end of the meeting re; times, dates etc.
4.3 Sgt Brady assured residents that the Gardaí have a lot of Respect for and are committed to working with residents/community and are sorry that people feel this way. Sgt Brady informed the meeting that Sgt Vincent Connolly is working hard with Fingal County Council in relation to issues in Mulhuddart and that the best approach is to ring the community section in the station with issues as they arise.
4.4 Sgt Brady feels that issues are being dealt with but accepts that things could be improved. She will speak to resident at the end of the meeting to address particular concerns.
4.5 Gardaí concedes that communication and feedback could be better but they are working hard to improve the situation, residents concerns will be taken on board. Sgt Brady assures residents that resources are always allocated based on need. Mulhuddart has four community Gardaí assigned to the area, so Garda commitment to the area has never been stronger.
4.6 Gardaí can only deal with individuals who Continually cause trouble by way of the courts and must have enough evidence to get to court in the first place. Residents are encouraged to get to know their local Community Gardaí and supply them with as much information as possible so that these individuals can be dealt with properly.
4.7 Gardaí do Check on young people and what they are doing when they are hanging around but they also need to be careful as young people are quite entitled to hang around outside their own homes. Otherwise Gardaí could be accused of harassment.
4.8 Gardaí patrols of the area will be alerted to this issue and will keep a close eye on houses where Older persons live. If anyone knows the names of these young people the Gardaí and the Council would be very interested to know who these youngsters are.
4.9 Gardaí were disappointed to hear that residents feel Disheartened but the community should be assured that the Garda commitment to the area has never been stronger.
4.10 As already stated new systems to Feedback directly to callers to the station are being developed and implemented, for example we now have an answering machine to record calls when Community Gardaí are out of the office. In future all callers to the station will receive a phone call in reply to left messages as soon as possible.
4.11 Information relating to Garda clinics has been made available in the past but possibly needs to be revamped. Gardaí will look at advertising in local newsletters; inform resident associations/estate management groups, the Safer Blanchardstown web site and other ways of getting the information out.
4.12 Sgt Brady thanked Tom Maloney for his positive comments and encouraged others to follow Tom’s example
4.13 Sgt Brady pointed out that the Public Forum meetings were a two way street where the meetings also provide an opportunity for the Gardaí to get to know residents personally and be able, in specific cases, to put something in place to address a particular issue directly.
5.0 Council Report:
5.1 Liam Burke Fingal County Council Housing Department provided a brief outline of the various works the housing department are involved in.
5.2 A slide show presentation showed photos of works carried out in Mulhuddart over the last 12 months. Photographs depicting before and after affects of dumping, vandalism, Graffiti & Graffiti removal and pre-let repair to houses were presented to the meeting.
5.3 Liam also explained aspects of the Housing Act, Residential Tenancies Act and Social Tenancy Agreement.
5.4 The procedure and variety of methods for residents making a complaint of anti-social behaviour to Fingal County Council was also explained and these are write; phone, email or call into office. Copies of the Fingal County Council anti-social behaviour brochure explaining each of these methods for reporting anti-social behaviour were made available at the meeting.
6.0 Fingal County Council Issues:
6.1 It was noted by residents that Parks Department staff were not at the meetings to address issues.
6.2 It is reported that there are about 12 to14 Horses in the Mulhuddart area that are being tethered on public open space. This is a concern for local residents as they are afraid to let their young children play in the vicinity of the horses. Adults too are afraid to pass by the horses as they do not feel safe getting too close to them and fear that they may get loose and run wild through the estates. Horses are also seen as an eyesore in that make the place look unkempt and dirty.
6.3 Residents wished to know what the letting procedure and turnaround time for Boarded up houses in the area is.
6.4 Residents feel that a huge gap exists around anti-social behaviour emanating from Private rented houses and wish to know what is or can be done about it.
6.5 The continuous problem of the Smell of sewerage covering the whole of Mulhuddart
is an ongoing problem is anything ever going to be done about it?
6.6 Residents were very angry and wished to know who was responsible for putting the Boulders in park and what did they cost? These boulders are a waste of time and money as they are not stopping dumping, anti-social behaviour or bikes going into the park.
6.7 Residents feel they are Not being listened to nor heard as they had numerous meetings with Fingal County Council in relation to a wall for the park. It had been agreed with the Council that a wall would be built, look nice and blend in with the area. Now what they have left us with is an eyesore that looks like a building site and not a public park.
6.8 They (Council) have no respect for residents
6.9 Residents stated that they would never work with Fingal County Council again as they Feel very let down and treated by the manner in which this issue was handled. Residents want to know what is Fingal County Council’s Plan and commitment to the Mulhuddart area.
6.10 In 2007 research was carried out in relation to park ranger what happened to this research and what was the outcome?
6.11 What is the procedure for the collection of Fingal County Council bins from residents who have moved to Panda or moved house?
6.12 If funding is secured to provide ramps on Ladyswell when is it likely to happen?
6.13 Acknowledgement for the works carried out by Fingal County Council to homes in the area was made.
6.14 It was stated by members of the audience that residents need to be more pro-active in relation to tackling issues in their area.
7.0 Council Response:
7.1: Any issues relating to the Parks or other Departments will be relayed by Council representatives attending this meeting.
7.2 Liam Burke stated that Horses are not tolerated by Fingal County Council and will be removed immediately and tagged. The owners of these animals then need to prove ownership and prove that they have the appropriate facilities to accommodate, feed and look after the horses.
The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) needs to be contacted but the council and the Gardaí will address this issue
Cllr Kieran Dennison stated that the situation with the Horses is that they are being kept on public open space and that this was not the appropriate place for them.
Cllr Ruth Coppinger said that the issue of keeping Horses has been a cultural aspect of the area and young people have kept horses as pets for many years now.
Cllr Patrick Nulty stated that residential areas are not the place for Horses but suggested that facilities for youths to pursue their interest in horses would benefit the area.
7.3 Liam Burke stated that Fingal County Council has improved the turnaround times for the re-letting of its housing stock. It is difficult to put an accurate time as to how long it may take for a particular Boarded up house to be turned around. Each house that comes back into the possession of the Council must undergo a series of pre-let repairs that brings the house up to new Department of the Environment standards. Such repairs may entail replacing existing windows, installing central heating, re-wiring etc. This all takes time and is particular to each individual property.
Unlike other Councils which operate a points system of allocating houses Fingal County Council’s allocations policy is based on need. The person with the greatest need based on certain criteria is moved to the top of the list and is offered the next available house that comes up for letting.
7.4 Anti-social behaviour coming from Private rented housing is outside the remit of Fingal County Council. However, the housing department meets on a regular basis with the Gardaí to discuss issues of anti-social behaviour. Any reports of anti-social behaviour coming form private rented accommodation are immediately forwarded to the Gardaí. Residents can also contact the Private Residents Tenancy Board.
7.5 The Sewage pipe that was broken by joy riders has been replaced and this should have relieved the problem. However the pipes belong to Meath County Council and they have responsibility and need to address these pipes.
7.6 Liam explained that an opportunity arose with a contractor who had the stone and was able to do the job immediately and that the Boulders were an effort to effectively address the problems that exist in the park.
7.7 Liam apologized to the community for the lack of communication but said it was in no way meant to undermine the relationships that have been built up over the past number of years with residents. The Council appreciates that resident groups give up their time freely to attend meetings and works hard to Listen to and resolve issues raised by residents.
7.8 There is no lack of Respect for residents of Mulhuddart; Fingal County Council is committed to the Mulhuddart area and in making it a better place to live.
7.9 There is a Plan for the park and the boulders are phase one with painting and planting to follow. National tree week which involved the school and local residents was a success, but there was not enough publicity around this event which reduced local resident’s participation.
7.10 Issue will be forwarded to Parks Department
7.11 Issue will be forwarded to environment Department
7.12 Funding is very tight at the moment but as soon as funds become available the works will be carried out.
7.13 / 14. Liam thanked resident for positive comments and agreed that residents themselves must play a more active role in maintaining their own area.
8.0 Close
8.1 Philip again reminded the audience that Garda and Council representatives will make themselves available at the end of the meeting if residents wished to speak to them privately and confidentially.
8.2 The audience were also reminded of the Dial to Stop Drug Dealing confidential phone line and encouraged to use the number.
8.3 Residents were invited to stay for the election of a community representative for Mulhuddart on to the Management Committee of Safer Blanchardstown
Philip passed meeting back to chair.
Breffni closed the meeting and thanked all who attended.
Election of Community representative for Mulhuddart
The election for a community representative for Mulhuddart followed the meeting. There were 2 nominees for the position Tom Maloney and Rose Emmett. After the election the votes were counted by Sgt Nicola Brady and the result announced. Rose Emmett was elected as the new Safer Blanchardstown community representative for Mulhuddart.
Safer Blanchardstown Public Forum Meeting Huntstown Community Centre 6th May 2010.
Safer Blanchardstown Public Forum Meeting
Huntstown Community Centre
6th May 2010.
Present:
Chair: Breffni O’Rourke
Facilitator: Philip Jennings
Gardaí; Inspector John Kelly, Sergeant Nicola Brady,
Garda’s Brendan Philips & Marie Scott
Community reps: Lisa Leech (Huntstown/Hartstown)
Paul Donnelly (Blakestown/Mountview)
Councillors in attendance: Kieran Dennison, David McGuinness, Ruth Coppinger
Apologies: Fingal County Council
Attendance: 60-65
1.0 Introductions and Rules:
1.1 Chair thanked the audience for attending the meeting and explained that this is the first Safer Blanchardstown meeting to be held in the Huntstown/Hartstown area.
1.2 Chair further explained that statutory representation from Fingal County Council will not be possible at this meeting due to the work to rule. However, a two page report was circulated detailing the plan of work for the various departments of Fingal County Council.
1.3 Philip explained the rules of the meeting to people and stressed the importance that no names may be given publicly. People are encouraged to voice their concerns and issues during the meeting but to speak in private to the Gardaí after the meeting if they have any confidential information they wish to pass on.
1.4 Philip informed the audience that an election was held in March in Huntstown/ Hartstown for a Safer Blanchardstown community representative. Phillip introduced the successful candidate Lisa Leech who is now the elected Community Representative for the Huntstown/ Hartstown area
1.5 Chair welcomed the young people from the Huntstown Role Model Club to the meeting.
2.0 Fingal County Council Report
2.1 It was explained that any issues raised this evening for the council will be passed to the appropriate department within the Council.
3.0 Garda Report
3.1 Inspector John Kelly introduced himself, invited Community Gardaí present to make their introductions and provided the following report.
3.2 Six burglaries have been committed in the Huntstown area over the last 12 months. Inspector Kelly explained that even though one burglary is too much six represents a significant reduction on previous years.
3.3 Public Order offences, of which there were twelve, relate to incidents that Gardaí come across in the course of their normal patrols. These incidents include public drunkenness and fighting etc. Some of these incidents will have been dealt with by use of the Garda Diversion Programme through the Juvenile Liaison Officer (JLO).
3.4 Five arrests have been made in relation to anti social behaviour; again those under 18, where appropriate, will have been dealt with through the JLO Garda diversion programme.
3.5 Insp Kelly explained that the Gardaí will be available to talk to people after the meeting relating to issues and concerns that residents may wish to speak in private about.
3.6Sergeant Nicola Brady introduced herself and provided the following update on various initiatives in which the Gardaí are involved :
3.7 Business Watch Blanchardstown Town Centre
3.8 During the year a Bike Scheme was held in the Community Centre where young people were invited to bring their bikes along and have them tagged and identification numbers recorded. Road Safety advice was also given to the young people who attended. This scheme is one that the Gardaí would like to roll out in schools across Blanchardstown
3.19 In relation to anti-social behaviour in Hartstown Park, Gardaí in partnership with Park Rangers have developed Park Safety Teams. Park Safety Teams meet on a regular basis and identify any “hotspots” that may exist and put measures in place to prevent anti-social behaviour. Such measures include extra Garda patrols at particular times of the evening and at weekends. Hedges which are used as hiding places and drinking dens have been cut back by the council which allows residents have a clear view of the park.
3.10 Gardaí would like to see a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme running in the area. Neighbourhood watch schemes meet on a monthly basis in order to regularly evaluate how the scheme is working in the area. It would be possible to link in with other older schemes in order to learn from their experience. For example a rep from Blanchardstown could link in with Finglas and Cabra reps once or twice a year
3.11Community Garda email address is available for residents who wish to make contact via the internet. Internet contact details will be made available to resident’s in the near future through community Centre Newsletter.
3.12 A regular Garda clinic is held in the Huntstown Community Centre every Thursday from 12.00 to 1.00pm. The day and time of the clinic can be changed to meet the needs of the community.
3.13 It is hoped that passport forms could be stamped at clinics rather than people having to call to the Station. This is something that is being looked at, but the station stamp is a very important legal piece of equipment and its security needs to be further considered.
3.14 In partnership with Safer Blanchardstown an initiative was put in place called Careless Parking at Schools and it ran for 4 weeks. Initially the Garda moved cars on and gave a warning to residents not to park carelessly outside the school. The next stage was to issue tickets to parents who persisted in careless parking. This initiative was very successful, however the Gardaí do not have the resources to run this initiative on a continuous basis but will randomly select schools on an ongoing basis for swoops on careless parking. Warnings have been given and in future tickets will be issued.
Action: Philip to forward e-mail address for Community Gardaí and Garda station to Community Centre for inclusion in local newsletter
Action: Gardaí will look at increasing patrols in Hartstown/Huntstown Park at times of high anti-social behaviour activity.
4.0 Feedback form audience on Garda Report
4.1 Residents welcomed the report
5.0 Issues for Gardaí
5.1 It was suggested that a time change for Garda clinic be made from 12-1:00pm to 12:30 – 3:00pm. This will facilitate youths from the secondary school who call into the centre for lunch. Also parents collecting their children from Primary school at 1.30 and 2.30 call into the centre at these times.
5.2 A person called into the station looking for passport forms and there were none available.
5.3 It was great to be able to cross the road during the Careless Parking at Schools initiative is there a possibility that this can be done once more as people are beginning to park outside the school again.
5.4 It was pointed out that when the Gardaí were outside the school they did not see what was happening outside the shop and in the car park adjacent to the shop and school. Moving the cars on has made the parking more dangerous at the shops. Cars are double and tripled parked on the pathway and it is a serious accident waiting to happen. There are regular incidents of cars bumping into each other causing minor damage. However, such incidents are causing huge arguments and in some case fights between drivers.
5.5 This situation is exacerbated by the delivery truck which makes its daily deliveries to the local shop between about 8:45am and 9:15am, just when children are being dropped off at the school.
5.6 There is also a problem with cars parking outsides homes and home owners unable to exit driveway.
5.7 A young person in the audience wished to know why pupils from Hartstown community College are being watched by Gardaí coming and going to school. It was suggested that Gardaí watching the pupils could be better employed down at the primary school directing traffic
5.8 Residents report that drug dealing is being carried out in the Huntstown Wood at the walkway through to Clonee on an ongoing basis (Details provided to Gardaí)
5.9 Residents in Huntstown report that drug dealing is continuously going on at blue railings. Residents have phoned the Gardaí and reported specific incidents. But as far as residents are concerned no Garda came to investigate. (Details provided to Gardaí)
5.10 Resident alleges that next door neighbour is dealing drugs. (Details provided to Gardaí)
5.11 A member of the travelling community reports experiencing what could be termed as racial taunts when dropping off and collecting children from the local national school. She is constantly called “Dirty Knacker” and “Smelly Knacker” This lady felt if this was a non Irish person being called names charges would be brought against the people doing name calling.
5.12 It was pointed out that allegations of this nature must first be reported to and investigated by the Gardaí. If proven then charges would be brought; proving such allegations is very difficult. The lady further expressed how this behaviour was upsetting her children.
Philip asks if the lady had contacted the school. She said she had but it is still going on.
5.13 A Man in his late 20’s is going around on a mountain bike in the area and he is mugging young children. A full description of the man and the bicycle is available. (Details provided to Gardaí)
5.14 During the summer there is a problem with people on motor bikes flying around the area. Parks are been ripped up by these people, residents are afraid to bring their children into their local parks and certainly will not allow them to go in to the parks alone.
5.15 A lady informed the meeting that she has had 6 cars stolen in the last 8 years and has never seen one of them again.
5.16 There is a person going around the community taking photographs of Houses and Cars in the area. (Details provided to Gardaí)
6.0 Garda response
6.1 The opening times of the Garda clinic will be looked at to see if the suggested times can be accommodated. The Gardaí will also look at expanding the service to see if passport stamping and other services can be made available at the clinic.
6.2 It was pointed out that you can get passport forms from the Fingal County Council Library in the Blanchardstown Centre, just ask at the reception desk.
6.3 As stated the Careless Parking at School initiative will remain in operation while schools are open however, the car park is a private car park and the Gardaí have no jurisdiction in regards to traffic incidents occurring within the car park.
6.4 If a car is taxed and insured it can legally park on any roadway; if there are no yellow lines Gardaí cannot issues tickets. However driveways should not be blocked and we will keep an eye on this.
6.5 Gardaí will speak to local shops and see if the delivery of goods can be delayed to a later time possibly 9:30am or so.
6.6 The Gardaí said that they do not always send out the blue and white Garda car. It is possible that an unmarked Garda car was sent out to the blue railings to investigate. Gardaí have ongoing and continuous undercover Garda cars operating in the Blanchardstown area.
6.7 Gardaí have in the past and will continue to seize motor bikes for non display of tax and insurance. Quads and motorbikes being used on public open spaces by young children even if they are accompanied by their parents will be seized. Parents and owners will be liable to on the spot fines of €130 plus storage charges of €35 per day. In addition owners of seized motorbikes will be liable for any damage caused to parks by the bikes and will be charged accordingly.
6.8 Lady who had six cars stolen to give her contact details to Gardaí at the end of meeting
Action: Gardaí to look at changing clinic times and expanding this service in line with feedback to include the stamping of passport forms etc
Action: Gardaí to request shop to change delivery schedules in response to health and safety issues
Action: Philip to talk to lady at the end of the meeting in relation to allegations of racial taunts
7.0 Issues from Residents:
7.1 Philip informed the meeting of the Fingal Stockcar Car Club which is in the process of being set up. A specialised track that can accommodate both stock cars and motorbikes is to be designed and the location for the track is to be Damastown industrial estate. Rules will apply to all members of the club which will include sanctions if a member is caught using motorbikes in the local parks. Best information at present is that plans are fairly advanced but in order to meet environmental standards a special trap has to be designed and built to prevent petrol/diesel spillages into the Tolka River which is very close to the proposed track.
8.0 Fingal Issues.
8.1 Is the bus corridor being planned for Huntstown still on the agenda?
8.2 This bus corridor is to run from Huntstown Way through Huntstown Wood with the road due to be opened into Clonee. It was stated that the general public and local residents are not interested in this bus corridor.
8.3 The blue gate in Huntstown Wood has been removed and a bit of fence has been put in its place. Residents are not happy with this piece of shoddy workmanship as youths can still go from Huntstown Wood to Carne court.
8.4 Lollipop lady would like the road markings re done in Huntstown Wood as soon as possible
8.5 The fence between Sacred Heart National School and the car-park at the shops is falling to one side, is in a very dangerous condition, at school time’s cars park right up to the fence and there is a real danger of one of the fence posts being knocked down and injuring one of the young children using the laneway. This situation is further exacerbated at school drop off and pick up times as people block the entrance to the laneway by parking on the footpath, very young children use this laneway to exit from the school and have to pass through cars parked close together on the footpath. Parents are very concerned as they feel that this is an accident waiting to happen.
8.6 This laneway is not owned by the school or the community centre both of which could put this waste of space to good use.
8.7 This situation needs to be resolved by painting yellow lines, erecting no parking signs, give laneway to the school or community centre before there is an accident?
8.8 Rented houses in the area with piles of rubbish in back gardens, what can be done? Residents to talk to Councillors present after meeting
Action: These points to be forwarded to the relevant departments within Fingal County Council
9.0 Soccer Club:
9.1 There is a proposal being put forward by Verona Soccer Club to build pitches in Hartstown Park. Residents feel that this proposal has been presented to the public in a way that implies that all clubs in the area are happy to go with the proposal. This in not the case as all clubs have not been part of any negotiations
9.2 It was pointed out by residents that Verona is not a local club, the local clubs are Hartstown villa. Villa and Whitestown United
9.3 The local clubs cannot afford to be a part of this proposal as the running costs per club are estimated to be about €30,000 per club per year if the proposal gets off the ground. If clubs can not afford this where will local clubs play football?
9.4 Local clubs wish to know from the Council has this proposal already been agreed between Verona and Fingal County Council
10.0 Close
10.1 Philip thanked the Huntstown community centre for the use of the hall for this evening meeting and again reminded residents that the Gardaí will make themselves available if residents wish to speak to them confidentially. The audience were also reminded of the Dial to Stop Drug Dealing confidential number and encouraged to use the number to report suspicious activity.
10.2 Philip passed meeting back to chair.
10.3 Chair thanked residents, youth group, community reps, Garda partners and community centre for participation and support. Chair assured audience that issues would be followed up by relevant agencies and feedback would be provided locally on progress.
End