Antisocial behaviour at playground addressed

MAYO Councillor Lisa Chambers has welcomed the action taken by Castlebar Municipal District Council in addressing the reported anti-social behaviour at the local town park.

She described how she has been inundated with contact from concerned residents about the activities at the park since first highlighting the issue.

 'One father told me he brought his child to the town park and witnessed what he could only describe as a bare knuckle boxing match taking place with one of the participants smearing blood on one of the play features. He was absolutely disgusted and said he would not be returning until something was done to tackle the problem.' said Chambers

 'This is a very serious issue and one that cannot be let lie. As a community we cannot tolerate this sort of behaviour. This is a fantastic amenity for the town and one which people are keen to use.

'It is also right along side our new greenway from Castlebar to Turlough which is attracting huge numbers of people. We want people to feel safe and happy using the facility and this is something the council are committed to ensuring.

 'I made the director of services Paddy Mahon aware of the problem a number of weeks ago and credit to him he has acted fast in tackling the issue. One of the items brought to my attention was the CCTV in the area.

'Part of the planning conditions was that CCTV would be operational in the area and monitored by Gardai. Residents queried with me if this was being done and being done properly. I sought clarification on this issue at the meeting and was delighted to hear that Mr Mahon has committed to liaising with the gardai and clarifying the CCTV issue.

'We will be getting a report on this at the next meeting. The matter has also been referred to the Mayo Joint Policing Committee for consideration so that a plan can be put in place in conjunction with the Gardai to ensure the matter is dealt with efficiently and effectively.'

 'I very much welcome the actions of the council on this matter and I commend the citizens and residents who brought this issue to my attention. If they had not done so we would not have the level of action we have had to date I look forward to the town park once again being a safe and clean place for children and families to enjoy.'