This article is from page 13 of the 2008-09-23 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 13 JPG
RESIDENTS in Miltown Malbay have supported calls for a law to be introduced that would provide com- munities with information on con- victed sex offenders in their area. They have also called for greater li- aison between gardai and rural local communities.
The support group One in Four is calling for the Government to con- sider an Irish version of ‘Megan’s re
This proposal is of considerable interest in Miltown Malbay. More than two years ago, locals there were shocked to learn that a 61-year-old man from the UK had been living in rented accommodation in the town, while an international manhunt was UNO Me NA
They were horrified to discover that the man, who was suspected of committing sex crimes, was living in the community for more than two months.
Local councillor Christy Curtin (Independent) said he would support debate on the introduction of the pro- posed legislation.
“Any law that would give people more information on their communi- ties has to be welcomed and at least needs to be considered,’ he said.
“Tf it relates to public safety, it has
to be considered. At the same time, you have to respect privacy. There has to be a balance, but in terms of reassurance, in terms of the commu- nity, everything needs to be consid- ered,” he said.
He said that Garda management must inject resources into increas- ing personnel in rural parts of the county.
“There should be greater liaison between gardai and the community. Gardai should be more accessible to people. Resources are limited. There is an emphasis on urban. I think there needs to be more emphasis on rural policing needs,” he said.