by Alan Jacques
LIMERICK is to receive 15 new Garda vehicles during the course of the current year to boost the fight against rural crime.
And according to Fine Gael TD, Patrick O’Donovan, some of themare already in action. He believes that providing resources for Gardaí and ensuring that legislation is in place to deter repeat offenders is essential to preventing rural crime.
“New Garda vehicles will really help the fight against crime in our communities.
“While better road networks provide great opportunities for local businesses, they also make it easier for burglars to travel to and from the Limerick area. New legislation will also keep repeat offenders in prison for longer and act as a significant deterrent,” he said.
€27.5 million was invested in new Garda vehicles between 2012 and 2014 and the Government is also strengthening An Garda Síochána for the future by reopening the Garda training college in Templemore and recruiting 550 new Gardaí.
“The first intake of 100 new recruits entered Templemore in September 2014 and passed out in April of this year. A further 200 recruits entered in December 2014 and February 2015, with 250 more expected to begin training later this year.
“Our local Gardaí will be really bolstered by this influx of new vehicles and Gardaí, which is part of the Government’s comprehensive plan to fight crime,” the Limerick TD concluded.
