Stolen cars again being driven onto playing pitches by vandals

By Laura Lyne

RESIDENTS living near Tymon Park have once again raised their concerns about stolen cars being driven onto the playing pitches and damaging the surfaces.

Last weekend, another car gained entry to the playing pitches and caused damage, with one resident calling on local councillors and gardaí to respond to ongoing anti-social behaviour.

Tymon North resident Brian MacCormaic, who has raised the issue with Tallaght counillors, said: “Why can’t the council or the gardaí do something about stolen cars being driven through Tymon Park – or do they care?

“[Over the weekend] a Seat car was still running when I saw it dumped the next morning on the soccer pitch. 

“This is the fourth or fifth car driven and dumped there in as many weeks.

“As [the Seat] was filled with smoke, I was afraid to open a door in case it exploded, and fearing there was somebody injured inside I called the gardaí immediately.

“But although I waited, no garda came.”

Local Labour councillor Mick Duff, who is also a local resident in the area, said that it is a great issue for the community.

Cllr Duff told The Echo: “It’s a great concern for residents. There are cars abandoned on roads throughout the estate and they’re scared that they’ll be damaged and set on fire.

“I’ve asked the council to take some measures. One area of deep concern would be Tymon Lane from the depot towards the pitches, I’ve asked for bollards to be installed along there.

“The gates are being closed, but unfortunately, these people just keep finding a way in. They’re destroying what is a lovely park, and they don’t seem to care what damage has been done or who they are upsetting.

“I would ask that if people see anything, such a registration number of a car involved or who know the people involved to contact Tallaght Garda Station, or if they would like, contact your local councillor and we will pass on the information.”

A spokesperson from South Dublin County Council said: “The council confirms that in recent times two cars gained entry to Tymon Park from along the wooded perimeter of the neighbouring Basketball Arena.

“We are currently examining the area to identify the access points in the trees/woodland and we will be closing them off.

“Already, all access points from the Basketball Arena laneway (into the park) have been secured and strengthened with metal bollards, thereby replacing original wooden ones.”

Tallaght Garda Station can be contacted at 6666000.