Pop-up Garda stations should be considered for Limerick city, Senator says

James Cox

The roll-out of temporary, pop-up Garda stations would ensure all communities have a strong visible Garda presence, according to a Fine Gael senator.

Senator Maria Byrne said that pop-up Garda stations have been used as a means of deterring the anti-social behaviour in Wexford and could be used nationwide.

“The roll-out of more pop-up stations on a temporary basis would provide those living in rural communities greater access to Garda services and provide a greater sense of security especially to the elderly in these communities.

“In our cities, like Limerick, it will increase the visibility of the gardaí and ensure better community policing tactics.

“Having spoken with many business owners across Limerick city, they value our Garda presence in the city and the introduction of a pop-up station would be key to helping this.

“There are several possible buildings in Limerick city that could be used such as the vacant former tourist office on O’Connell Avenue. This would be a prime location within the city centre.

“Pop-up stations are an excellent means of providing people with a greater sense of security and they bring policing right to the heart of the community."

Ms Byrne added: “We’ve seen the introduction of 10 Garda Community Engagement Vans which act as mobile Garda stations where a range of services can be provided to the public. This is a fantastic model that could be replicated in a pop-up Garda station in Limerick.

“Last week we saw the roll out of body cameras in Limerick by Minister McEntee and this has been a very welcome step. The roll-out of Garda pop-up stations would be another step we could take to ensure we keep our communities safe.

“We have seen the successful roll-out of pop-up stations in Wexford, and I believe this would be a great addition for Limerick and other towns and cities across Ireland."