Destructive behaviour condemned by community as nine arrests made
By Mary Dennehy
THE community of Tallaght has been left in shock and "absolutely fuming" tonight after a serious of incidents took place across the area - which included the theft of vehicles, burglary and the substantial damage to the Lidl store on Fortunestown Lane.
Members of the community have taken to social media this evening to express their anger and disgust over the incidents, which has left many feeling unsafe across the area.
In an updated Garda statement tonight it was confirmed that nine people have, to date, been arrested.
According to the statement: “Following reports of burglary and theft of vehicles, Garda units deployed in the Tallaght District and nine arrests were made to date.
“Substantial damage was caused to a supermarket on Fortunestown Lane and further damage to another premises in Jobstown.
“All those arrested are currently detained at Dublin Garda Stations.”
An incident room has also been established at Tallaght Garda Station, and people are encouraged to make contact if they have any information.
Community is “absolutely fuming”
Dublin South West TD Sean Crowe (Sinn Fein) said that the community is ‘absolutely fuming’ tonight, and that those responsible are not representative of the vast majority of good people in Tallaght.
“While the vast majority of people in Tallaght are worried about weather conditions, getting to work, supporting their neighbours and helping the elderly, criminal elements have brought shame by destroying local businesses”, Deputy Crowe said.
“The last few days have been full of positive stories of people pulling together but the criminality witnessed tonight in Tallaght is generating huge anger and frustration.”
He added: “There must be a speedy and effective policing response from An Garda Síochána.
“It is also important to note that these criminal acts are not representative of the vast majority of good people in Tallaght.
“In fact, the people of this area are absolutely fuming at this evening’s events.
“My sympathies and my thoughts are with those who will undoubtedly lose their jobs and their livelihoods as a result of this madness.”
This behaviour does “not represent Tallaght”
Tallaght councillor Martina Genockey, Labour Party, has also spoken out about the incidents.
“This type of behaviour has put a needless amount of pressure on our emergency services who have been trying to keep our community safe throughout Storm Emma”, she said.
“Over the last number of days, our community here in Tallaght has shown strength in the eye of a literal storm and the behaviour by this select few is nothing short of disgusting.
“During bad weather events like this, it is absolutely horrific to think that people in genuine need will be denied speedy access to emergency services because they have to clear up the mindless mess created by people who have no concern for our community.
“This behaviour does not represent Tallaght.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Tallaght Garda Station on 6666000, the Garda Confidential line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
TAGS Tallaght
