Tipperary TD calls for more gardaí in local Tipperary town

Tipperary North TD Ryan O’Meara has called for an increase of Gardaí in Roscrea.

Speaking with Taoiseach Micheál Martin in the Dáil, Deputy O’Meara stated: "A few years ago, Roscrea had three sergeants, 18 to 20 frontline gardaí, two civilian staff, and a detective. Currently, the town is served by three sergeants and only seven frontline gardaí, with one Garda on loan from Nenagh to meet basic staffing requirements. The reliance on overtime and temporary measures is unsustainable.

READ MORE: Tipperary's largest town ‘is crying out’ for proper taxi rank

“Last August, I was delighted to welcome five new gardaí to North Tipperary. These Gardaí went to Nenagh and Thurles, which is very positive and welcome. Roscrea unfortunately was left out. Roscrea Garda Station essentially does not open anymore, whether it's for policing or even for someone to get a form signed for a passport, it's very difficult on the town.

“I have contacted the Minister for Justice and An Garda Síochána, urging them to prioritise Roscrea in the allocation of new recruits. It is a town that desperately needs resources, and I am asking for your intervention to get more Gardaí for Roscrea.

READ MORE: 'People took it for granted': Tipperary store to close after more than 70 years in business

In response, the Taoiseach acknowledged the need for increased Garda resources in Roscrea: "You've made a very cogent and strong case for more gardaí in Roscrea."

The Taoiseach stated that there is a renewed focus on regions outside of Dublin and mentioned that current recruitments from the Garda College will allow for more allocations to regions and towns like Roscrea. Taoiseach Micheál Martin concluded: “I certainly will talk to the Minister for Justice. You've raised the issue, and I think it's a legitimate case."