Ballyfermot shooting underscores need for Garda unit to tackle gun crime in West Dublin – Collins

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Justice Niall Collins has said last night’s shooting in Ballyfermot, in which a six year old boy was injured, highlights the urgent need for a dedicated garda unit to tackle gun crime in west Dublin.

Deputy Collins said, “There has been a dramatic spike in gun crime in West Dublin.  Attacks have become a regular occurrence with many lives lost and people seriously injured.  But the fact that a six year old boy was caught in the cross fire last night really act as a wake-up call for the government.

“I have been working with our newly elected Councillor in Ballyfermot Daithi de Roiste and we pressed the government to establish a dedicated Garda unit to fight gun crime in West Dublin last March. Minister Alan Shatter failed to act. I will be raising this again with Minister Frances Fitzgerald and I hope the government will listen this time. There needs to be an immediate intervention here.  I am very pleased to hear the that young boy injured last night did not sustain serious or life-threatening injuries but I can’t help but think that this shooting could easily have ended in absolute tragedy.

“Local gardaí are going above and beyond the call of duty every day to keep these residential areas safe but the reality is violence is escalating and they need more resources.  I am urging the Minister and the acting Garda Commissioner to immediately examine what additional resources can be directed towards addressing this worrying spike in violent attacks in west Dublin.  As well as a greater garda presence on the streets, I believe we need a dedicated garda unit to oversee the investigation and prevention of gun crime in this area is needed urgently”.