CORK Gardaí are meeting with the businesses of Cornmarket Street and Daunt Square this week to discuss the issue of anti-social behaviour in the area.

Gardaí have said they appreciate the work of private security, following a collective proposal from local businesses to provide daytime security to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Inspector John Deasy said most licensed premises have private security and it is “additional eyes and ears on the street.” 

His comments come as local businesses of Daunt Square and Cornmarket Street have pledged to fund private security for the area after an incident outside The Roundy in recent weeks.

“Private security is nothing new to us, they will do their duties accordingly.

Inspector Deasy said that the Gardaí will continue to vigilantly police the city centre, but said: “We can’t be everywhere all the time.” “We often prioritise a hot spot and then the problem moves.” With regard to the incident last Sunday week where it is reported a number of individuals became aggressive with patrons of The Roundy bar, Inspector Deasy said: “the incident is under investigation.” “We identified people on the night and they were spoken to. We have examined CCTV and further identifications have been made from that evidence.

The acting Superintendent said the investigation is ongoing and he cannot give out any more information on the incident, but he said that “public order is very high on our agenda.” “We continue to police the city centre, but we can’t be everywhere all the time.” Speaking about the intention to bring more private security into the area, Insp Deasy said that private security was appreciated by An Garda Síochána.

“Look around the city, in the shops and pubs, thankfully there is a lot of private security stopping disorderly behaviour.

“Licenced security are doing a very good job, they are extra eyes and ears around the city and we appreciate their work.” Looking at the issue of antisocial behaviour in the city, Insp Deasy said that An Garda Siochana would be liaising with the establishments around Daunt Square and Cornmarket St and working with them to tackle the issue.

“We will be liaising with these establishments.”