BRING back the rent collectors, is Cllr John Gilligan’s part-solution to anti social activities in the city’s housing estates.
Speaking on a law and order discussion at a meeting of City Council, he had this to say:
“When we withdrew the rent collection men from housing estates – yes, we did so because there had been attacks on some of them, and we had no other option at the time, but they were our eyes and ears and maybe we should consider a way of going back to this”.
He referred to the high level of anti-social activity in Garryowen.
“Once, people couldn’t get in there, now they want to get out – we have to take a long hard look at those who are creating these problems – we have to be strong and we need the help of the State as the council cannot do it by itself.
“We can’t accept this anti-social activity where law and order has broken down. We have to assert ourselves because people must be able to live in safety in their own homes – that is not too ambitious.
“With unruly tenants we bring them in and give them written warnings, but the problem is with the judiciary who kick for touch for six to 12 months – it’s outside of our control”.
Cllr Pat Kennedy agreed it was pointless to build new housing estates without a vast improvement in law and order.
He said:
“I am very concerned regarding law and order in our city – the agencies, including the city council, can’t take anything for granted.
“There is no reference made that people living in certain areas are afraid to look out their door. But we have other countries that are making bigger efforts than our Garda Commissioner.
“We have a huge problem and people are wondering if these issues will ever be tackled. ‘There is also the worrying fact that we have huge absenteeism in this city – once upon a time we had Garda Siochana specially designated to check into school absenteeism, but now there is no effort being made to see that children attend”.
Responding to Cllr Gilligan’s comments, Cllr Kennedy said that the majority of cases “start in the District Court.
“When tenants appeal to the High Court, it’s the Houses of the Oireachtas who rush through the legislation.
“Our District Judge, Tom O’Donnell, is doing an excellent job but some of his decisions are appealed”.
A suggestion from Cllr O’Loughlin called on the council to insert notices in the local media, advertising the confidential line when reporting anti-social or intimidating behaviour. The number is 1800 283 064
