Gardaí to tackle 'unsightly' anti-social behaviour

Garda bosses have vowed to deploy more dedicated frontline officers to combat anti-social behaviour in the centre of Monaghan town.

It comes after Monaghan Municipal District councillors called on An Garda Síochána to tackle rowdy behaviour in and around the Diamond area in the town.

Fine Gael councillor Alan Johnston described the anti social behaviour around the Diamond as bringing “disquiet” to the area and was “unsightly” for visitors to the town.

In a letter to Monaghan Municipal District, Superintendent Patrick O’Connell said gardaí noted the concerns raised about anti social behaviour at the Diamond.

“I can confirm that these specific concerns will be addressed through the local policing units to help as a preventative measure,” Supt O’Connell said.

He added that An Garda Síochána’s local frontline community engagement response units have a good record of dealing with anti social behaviour and public order related type incidents in this area.

“This is supported by the number of public order arrests and policing interventions which are made in the town when necessary,” Supt O’Connell wrote.

He added: “I would encourage any member of the public, and indeed elected members, to continue to report all such issues and incidents for appropriate investigation by An Garda Síochána.”

Cllr Johnston welcomed the response and said he hoped they would deploy resources to combat anti-social behaviour in the area.