Up on 500 people gathered tonight in Carrickmacross for a public meeting to discuss the recent level of unease that’s been felt the town.
The meeting discussed concerns surrounding safety and migration in the town.
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Deputy Matt Carty hosted the meeting that was called following a number of incidents in Carrickmacross in recent weeks.
Deputy Carthy said an issue with anti-social behaviour and crime along with a lack of garda visibility were some of concerns highlighted to him.
He said there is also an issue with dereliction as several prominent buildings in our town centre lying idle.
Some of the people highlighted their concerns said that the town was ‘dead’. The well attended public forum addressed several key issues, with some local councillors highlighting the need for improved Garda visibility on the streets of Carrickmacross along with better lighting.
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The continued calls by local councillors for CCTV was also to the fore by the Sinn Fein representatives that were in attendance. Speakers shared fears of walking in town, even during daylight hours. Some spoke of being afraid to take money out of ATM’s on the Main Street and another person said she locks her car now when she visits the town,
Gardaí, council officials, elected representatives from all parties were all invited but except for Sinn Fein elected members others were not in attendance.
Members of the public were given time to share their concerns and proposals on the night.
Robert Burns, CEO of Monaghan issued a statement online in relation to the recent level of unease in the town. “As Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council and as someone who lives in Carrickmacross, I am acutely aware of the public concern around the incidents of recent weeks and around safety in the town.
“With my staff in the Council Executive, and working alongside Councillors in the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District, we have been working closely to support An Garda Síochána as they work to protect the public, maintain law and order and investigate alleged crimes.
“The Council is engaging with business & community representatives to reassure the community and the general public that Carrickmacross is a safe and welcoming town. The Council is also working with community stakeholders to support integration and cohesion in the wider community.
“There is so much to be positive about in Carrickmacross – it is a proud, vibrant, attractive, friendly and resilient market town and has a great retail offering with everything from cafes, bars and restaurants to gift shops, furniture stores and supermarkets, and so much more.
“The Council, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce, businesses, event organisers and others, will be redoubling its efforts to promote the town as a welcoming and vibrant place to live, visit and shop.“
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