Gardai attacked by thugs while protecting works
By Maurice Garvey
GARDAI came under attack while providing overnight protection for the re-instalment of a crucial CCTV camera in Cherry Orchard.
The Echo understands work began on a solid foundation structure to support the CCTV camera on Tuesday July 25, and it was completed in quick succession during a second phase later that week.
However, gardai from Ballyfermot station who manned the structure to prevent it from being vandalised the day it was constructed, came under attacked by youths, who threw stones and other objects at garda vehicles.
In April, organised criminals used a stolen truck to knock down the high-quality camera at the junction of Cherry Orchard Avenue/Drive – a recognition of the effectiveness of the facility which has five cameras and relays visible images to the local garda station.
It was the latest of several attempts by criminal elements to destroy the structure.
For security reasons, Dublin City Council could not name a date when work on the replacement was to take place.
Inspector Andy Tuite, Ballyfermot Garda Station said: “Gardai maintained a police presence overnight whilst concrete was being dried on July 25. Our garda van was stoned by youths that night. That camera is a vital tool for us to do our work in supporting the community.”
While there was a fear that the criminals were running riot since the destruction of the camera in April, gardai have carried out some high profile stings in the area during that period, including a recent €4 million haul of drugs and weapons.
The camera was initially installed last year at a cost of approximately €60,000, and Dublin City Council estimate it will cost an additional €20,000 to remove, replace and repair the pole.
The total cost of €80,000 to taxpayers, does not include additional security measures which were required during the installation.
