New Leitrim Community Safety Partnership aims to strengthen local safety

The newly established Leitrim Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) held its inaugural meeting in The Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon on Tuesday, February 10. The LCSP has been established to provide a collaborative forum where community safety concerns can be identified, discussed, and addressed through coordinated, evidence-based action.

The Leitrim LCSP comprises 26 members and brings together residents, community organisations, elected members, An Garda Síochána, Leitrim County Council, TUSLA, the Health Service Executive (HSE), education and business representatives, and other key stakeholders. 

The purpose of the LCSP is to provide a collaborative forum where community safety concerns can be identified, discussed, and addressed through coordinated, evidence-based action.

LCSPs have been introduced in every local authority area across Ireland, replacing and expanding on the work of the former Joint Policing Committees.

At the meeting, Pat Forde, former CEO of North Connacht Youth Services, was elected Chairperson of the Partnership, and Cllr Maeve Reynolds was elected Vice-Chair. 

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Both will serve for three years from the date of appointment and will lead the partnership in its work to promote safer communities and strengthen trust and cooperation among all stakeholders.

Newly elected Chairperson Pat Forde commented, “I am honoured to serve as Chairperson of Leitrim LCSP. I look forward to working collaboratively with residents, community organisations, and statutory agencies to strengthen safety, build trust, and ensure every voice is heard.”

Mary Quinn, Deputy Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council, said, “Today’s meeting marks a major milestone in delivering Ireland’s new national approach to community safety for Leitrim. Leitrim County Council looks forward to supporting the LCSP as it begins its important work in fostering stronger, safer communities across Leitrim.”

Extending thanks to members and organisations who dedicated their time to the initiative, Ms Quinn added that the Council believes the LCSP will help ensure people genuinely feel safe in their communities.

“By building safe, resilient, and inclusive places underpinned by strong partnership working, targeted prevention strategies, and a shared sense of responsibility, we can enhance the quality of life for those who live, work or visit Leitrim,” she added.

Mary Quinn, Deputy Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council; Cllr Maeve Reynolds, elected Vice-Chair of the LCSP; and Pat Forde, elected Chairperson of the LCSP.

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Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan welcomed the first meeting of the Leitrim LCSP, saying it marked another significant step in the nationwide rollout of LCSPs.

“The next step for this Partnership is to develop and implement its own tailored community safety plan. The National Office of Community Safety, based in my Department, will be on hand to support the Partnership as it begins its important work,” said Minister O’Callaghan.

“Bringing together local representatives, community groups and state agencies allows Leitrim Local Community Safety Partnership to develop a plan that identifies community safety needs in their own area.”

The Leitrim LCSP will begin work on the development and implementation of a Community Safety Plan and will hold a public meeting later in 2026.

The Leitrim Local Community Safety Partnership can be contacted at lcsp@leitrimcoco.ie.

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