The shooting in the early hours of Sunday morning of four people on the North Circular Road has left the local community in shock and highlights the need to protect local garda resources. The shooting happened on one of the capitals main streets outside a busy public house and close to many private homes. The area is heavily populated with young families and older people who are extremely upset by what has happened and now have serious concerns about community safety.
There is no room for complacency when it comes to violent crime in the community and this latest shooting highlights the importance of protecting community garda resources and supporting the gardaí in the fight against crime. Dublin Central is served by dedicated and hardworking Gardai however they are stretched to capacity.
People are very worried that this shooting and other shootings in the inner city, Finglas, Glasnevin and Clondalkin in recent months appear to indicate towards an increasing trend in violent gun crime. People want to see a determined and comprehensive response from the Gardai.
I am urging the Minister for Justice Alan Shatter to ensure that local gardaí are given every resource and support they need to investigate this shooting and bring the attackers to justice without delay. I am calling on the Minister to recognise the importance of protecting key frontline garda resources and to ensure that investigations such as this are not hindered in any way by budget cuts.
The Gardai are appealing to anyone who was in the area or might have any information to contact them at the Bridewell Garda Station 01 666 8200. Mary
