A garda car rammed during an incident in Cherry Orchard in September
Garda operation ‘scaled back’ after joyriding cases
GARDAI have scaled back operations in Cherry Orchard following a major response to high profile joyriding cases.
The area was big national news story last September, after footage of a garda car being rammed by juveniles in stolen cars, went viral.
Public attention and multiple ministerial visits to the area followed, and gardai increased patrols and engagement with community stakeholders.
An assault on two gardai on Ballyfermot Road in November led to a vigil outside the garda station as residents showed their support for local gardai.
Speaking at the Ballyfermot Joint Policing Meeting this week, Superintendent Anthony Twomey said they have “scaled back” their presence in the area, following “six to eight months” of operations.
“We don’t see the need for that on the ground,” said the Supt, with regard to the present environment in Cherry Orchard.
However, Supt Twomey said they would have additional units patrolling the area, and they also have access to public order units across the city, who are equipped to deal with situations as they arise.
Supt Twomey, a “big advocate” of gardai on pedal bikes, said six gardai have been added to this unit in the Ballyfermot area.
“They are great for their flexibility, and their interaction with the community is immense,” he said.
Cllr Daithí Doolan (SF), chairperson of the Joint Policing Committee, welcomed the recent policing strategies, but he also praised the work by stakeholders in promoting the area in recent months, and the hosting of the inaugural Cherry Blossoms Festival.
“It is important that we keep this good work going,” stressed Cllr Doolan.
Supt Twomey encouraged residents to take advantage of the increase in bike patrols by taking a picture for their social media.
“People can be very quick to highlight the negative things in the community. I’d ask if anyone out there is a social media buff, and they see a garda pedal cycle, to take a pic. There might be some smart comments but we are used to that,” said the Supt.
