Security hoarding installed at ‘White House’ on canal
By Muiris O’Gairbheith
SECURITY hoarding has been installed at the White House - a local lock keepers house on the Grand Canal - in an attempt to tackle drug dealing at the location.
Organised crime and serious anti-social issues along the canal, from Lucan to Inchicore, has been the subject of an ongoing garda operation for the last couple of years.
The hoarding up at the lock keepers house along the canal
A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardai at Clondalkin and Ronanstown are continuing efforts to improve public safety along the Grand Canal. In recent weeks consultation has occurred with key stakeholders including South Dublin County Council and Waterways Ireland to improve safety on this valuable local amenity.
“Security hoarding is now in place at the Lock Keepers House, known locally as the ‘White House’ and provision of a security fence is under consideration due to the structural condition of the building.”
The Echo understands CCTV is also in operation at the 11th Lock location.
The building is officially known as Omer’s Lock House, Cappagh West 11th Lock.
It is understood to be the first ever lock house built on the canal.
Gardai along the canal
The wider Grand Canal operation also involves local authorities and other stakeholder groups, and saw the installation in Bluebell of ‘vandal proof’ CCTV cameras sourced from the UK.
Increased garda patrols were implemented two years ago following thefts of commuters’ bikes and e-scooters, who were accosted by gangs of youths – the bulk of this occurring in Inchicore and Bluebell, near the Blackhorse Luas stop.
Clondalkin Gardai say they have conducted a number of high visibility proactive patrols along the canal in recent weeks involving the Garda Mounted and Dog Units.
“These high visibility patrols will continue in the coming weeks,” said a senior garda source.
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