Cork park 'badly needs CCTV as a deterrent' following incidents of antisocial behaviour 

A call has been made for the installation of CCTV cameras at Loughmahon Park as antisocial behaviour has become “deeply frustrating” for residents and park users.

The call comes following an incident on Saturday evening, during which children’s play equipment was damaged.

It is understood a children’s swing was set on fire within the park playground shortly after 9pm.

This latest incident comes only two months after a separate incident involving a fire took place at the amenity.

In August, a group of youths were seen setting refuse bins alight within the amenity’s bounds, causing significant damage to the grass around the children’s play area.

It is further understood that a unit from the Cork City Fire Brigade attended the park on Saturday, with the damaged swing removed from the premises.

This month, a motion calling for CCTV cameras to be installed in the area will be put to Cork City Council.

The motion is seeking the removal of GDPR blockades to allow for the installation of the camera equipment, and calls on the council to write to the Data Protection Commissioner to request a meeting on the matter.

Labour Party councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Peter Horgan said there is “zero excuse for this behaviour”.

“I’m furious. It’s deeply frustrating for people I represent in the area having to hear of attempted fires again on something as critical of an amenity as a playground,” said Mr Horgan.

“Loughmahon Park badly needs CCTV as a deterrent, not GDPR excuses. I urge anyone with details on the incident to make it known to gardaí.

“The commissioner and the minister for justice need to fast track resources for the Blackrock Garda Station to ensure confidence and to assist frontline gardaí currently working in our community.”

Fine Gael councillor for the Cork city South East ward, Des Cahill, said incidents of this nature are “really frustrating for residents living near to the park”.

“It’s very disappointing. I know the gardaí are very frustrated by this as well,” said Mr Cahill.

“Mahon is a great place to live, but things like this happening puts a blight on the area.

“We need CCTV in the park, and also for The Line, but legislation isn’t clear on who will own and watch the footage. 

“That question still isn’t answered.

“We all want cameras in there, but our hands are tied locally until this is addressed nationally.”