Representatives from An Garda Síochána hosted an open meeting for residents of the Delvin & Killucan sub district at St Patrick’s Hall on Thursday 18th October. In attendance were Peter Duffy – Chief Superintendent for Westmeath, and Alan Murray – Superintendent for Mullingar. They were joined by colleagues Inspector Jarlath Folan, Sergeant Paddy Guinan – Crime Prevention Officer for Westmeath, as well as representatives from Delvin and Killucan garda stations.
We are entering a critical time of year with darker and longer evenings ahead.
Q: How many garda officers are there in Delvin? A: There are 8, including 1 sergeant.
Q: Can CCTV footage be shared on public websites to help identify thieves? A: No. If you have footage of a crime in progress, you must share it with the gardai and they will take appropriate action. CCTV on public land is subject to a number of privacy laws and must be managed properly.
Q: Can I protect my home from intruders / attack? A: Yes, but within reason. You have the right to defend your home and property and that the force you use must be in context – i.e. killing a burglar will probably still land you in jail.
Q: Why do we not get feedback on crimes that have affected us? A: Gardai are making an effort to improve the followup information they offer to victims of crime – criminal proceedings etc. This is a work in progress.
Q: Will additional garda officers be deployed to this area? A: There is considerable competition between districts when new resources are being allocated but they will do what they can.
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Delvin Community Alert will take place at 8pm on Thursday 1st November in the Fatima Room next to Delvin church. All welcome.