The Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald visited Roscrea on Monday on the invitation of Deputy Noel Coonan to meet with members of ‘Roscrea Stand Up’. Approximately 20 people attended the meeting including representatives from various local residents associations.
Minister Fitzgerald was in Tipperary for a short time following her visit to Templemore Garda College and Deputy Coonan availed of the opportunity to ask his colleague to meet with representatives of the group.
Deputy Coonan said: “Many important policing issues were discussed at the meeting by those who attended; and everyone had something productive to discuss with Minister Fitzgerald. Hopefully Roscrea residents found it comforting to know the Minister is aware of issues concerning the town; and that I previously contacted her about our public meetings.
“A text alert coordination plan was discussed for the town, as were Garda numbers, the operation of the local Garda Station and measures to stop drugs entering our region. I reiterated to Minister Fitzgerald that a 24-hour Garda Station is of utmost importance to the town and it is unacceptable to remove such a facility. Minister Fitzgerald acknowledged these concerns and took our points on board.
“Minister Fitzgerald complimented everyone present on their strong community unity; and for continuing to pass intelligence to the Garda in the fight against crime,” concluded Deputy Coonan.