General election candidate calls for full-time Garda station in Mayo town

General election candidate in Mayo, Paul Lawless, has called for a full-time station in Ballinrobe due to a rise in crime.

The Aontú candidate said the rise in crime in the town is causing concern. 

“Sadly, crime is rising in Ballinrobe, and people have huge concerns. The nearest full-time Garda Station is in Claremorris which is 22 kilometres away and this is already under huge pressure as it covers a massive area,” he stated.

Cllr Lawless explained that despite the expansion of both Ballinrobe and Claremorris, no additional resources have been put in place. 

“Not one additional Garda has been placed in South Mayo over the past number of years. This makes absolutely no sense and is putting inordinate pressure on the existing resources.

“Drugs have become a big issue in the town with all the associated social problems, and it is a situation that is getting worse. We know that a visible Garda presence is a major deterrent, but there is absolutely none. Ballinrobe needs a full-time Garda presence, and I am determined that this be realised as a matter of urgency,” he continued.

The general election candidate is expected to highlight the issue when he meets with Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris, this week.

“I am looking forward to the meeting with Drew Harris to spell out what it’s actually like on the ground for the people of Ballinrobe who frankly do not feel safe,” he concluded.