Gardai outline proactive measures being taken in the community

Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) checkpoint figures were down from 187 to 145 this quarter, said Inspector Carla Curry at the latest Leitrim JPC meeting, however drug driver figures were up by 21 from 11 to 32. 

Meanwhile, eight people were caught driving while intoxicated, down from 14 last year. 

She said the community engagement unit has conducted 303 proactive patrols in Carrick to date and 75 proactive check points. 

In April, she noted that a 24 hour nationwide initiative in conjunction with the RSA took place which encouraged motorists to slow down and safer driver behaviour. 

She added, "We are also doing additional half-hour daily patrols, high visibility, they are being carried out by frontline Gardaí."

She said in Leitrim's road policing unit, there are five Gardaí and one sergeant and in the last 30 days, they have arrested 19 drink/drugs drivers, performed 48 MIT checkpoints, 44 Road Safety Checkpoints and detained 30 vehicles for having no insurance and tax as well as also performing six HGV checkpoints. 

Insp. Curry listed the many activities rolled out by the local Gardaí including a proactive campaign on social media to encourage people to "park smart" in relation to crime prevention information. 

She said that in many instances of theft from vehicles, the cars were unlocked and highlighted the importance of personal security and being aware of the steps that an individual can take to deter criminals from accessing property. 

She said that Sergeant Cara Kiernan, Crime Prevention Officer, is available to give a presentation on crime prevention to communities. 

She continued that a number of community meetings have taken place over the last number of months including in Kinlough and Drumkeeran. She said there are clinics in Drumkeeran and Keshcarrigan on the first Tuesday of every month where community guards go to community centres and members of the public can come in if they need forms signed, etc.

She said a very successful transition year programme was rolled out with 25 students in attendance who were educated on issues such as safety on the roads and received support practices and talks from the local drugs units. 

Regarding the Business Watch Alert scheme, she said the community engagement unit is encouraging businesses in Leitrim to use the Leitrim Alerts app. 

In April, an information stand was hosted at the Landmark Hotel in relation to wiser and greener information.