Republican News · Thursday 25 April 2002

Callanan calls for radical approach to crime

Sinn Féin general election candidate in Galway West, Daniel CaIlanan, says the people of the city are becoming increasingly concerned by what they see as an increase in anti-social behaviour.

"In addition to concerns about the state of the health service, concerns about crime and public disorder appear to be one of the major issues I am meeting on the canvass. I have also spoken to many young people who have grave concerns over the level of violence in Galway. This government boasts about its policy of zero tolerance and a reduction in crime statistics. Meanwhile, we have more gardaí than ever before, more prison spaces and more convictions. Yet can anybody in Galway City suggest that this is a safer place today than five years ago?

"We have to look at radical solutions rather than the failed policies of the past. The licensing laws plus the drinks advertising industry will have to be completely reviewed. In addition, the entire implementation of the criminal law system at District Court level will have to be looked at. We need more District Court judges, more sittings of the District Court and an increase in community service orders, plus appropriate detention centres for persistent offenders. The present system of fines does not appear to be working. Just a fortnight ago I raised serious concerns about the joyriding issue in this city and that same would result in somebody being killed. Unfortunately, my concerns have been well founded as evidenced by the recent tragic deaths of two gardaí in Dublin.

"We must face up to the causes of such anti-social behaviour. And many of the causes of such behaviour can be related back to the leaders of our society, who have consistently failed to provide proper resources for our youth. Our young people have been failed by the pillars of society. Young people see wrongdoing and corruption in the very institutions, which should be providing leadership - the government, the Church, the judiciary, the gardaí, etc.

"I have been amazed at the numbers of young people, male and female, I have met on the canvass who say that they are fearful walking home at night. There are many factors contributing to the present crisis, such as underage drinking, the widespread abuse of alcohol and in particular stimulant drinks, and the lack of resources and facilities for community groups struggling to provide alternative activities for young people. A radical solution is called for, one that will address the various factors that give rise to it in the first place. The last five years have demonstrated that John O'Donoghue and this government are not up to the task."