Carrickmacross based Sinn Féin TD, Matt Carthy, has said that the events of recent weeks in the town have created an unprecedented level of local unease that must be addressed. Deputy Carthy confirmed that he will be hosting a public meeting next Tuesday in the Shirley Arms Hotel at 8pm next Tuesday, 6th May. He has invited Gardaí, council officials, elected representatives from all parties and local community groups to attend and speak at the meeting at which members of the public can share their concerns and proposals. Deputy Carthy said he has been contacted by several concerned residents of the town who have asked him to organise a public meeting where concerns can be addressed.
The local TD believes there is an issue with anti-social behaviour and crime and a lack of Garda visibility. Speaking to Northern Sound, the local representative said the image of a knife-wielding man on our main street has caused huge consternation and people are rightly demanding action. He believes this public meeting is an opportunity for people in Carrickmacross to constructively engage and send a message that things need to change: " There is a lot of good work being done by local community organisations in Carrickmacross. They need support. Many businesses are doing their best to provide a service to the people of the town in very difficult circumstances. They need support.
" fully understand why people have organised protests to express the anger and fear they feel. They are fully entitled to do so. This public meeting is an opportunity for people in Carrickmacross to constructively engage and send a message that things need to change. It is not a party-political meeting - It will be focused on identifying solutions to problems and giving local people an opportunity to have their voices heard. All residents of the Carrickmacross area are welcome to attend."
