Sinn Féin TD Imelda Munster has said that the lack of progress on the extension of Laytown Garda station and the redrawing of the Drogheda and East Meath Sub District Boundaries are matters of huge concern and that people in the area feel abandoned.
Deputy Munster raised the issue with Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD, who confirmed that she cannot provide dates for the proposed changed to take place, or provide details of when Laytown Garda station will be extended, saying that it is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.
Deputy Munster said:
“Today’s response was very disappointing, especially as we’re coming into the winter months with darker evenings which can leave people feeling more vulnerable.”People in East Meath feel abandoned.
“At the moment Laytown Garda station is only manned for four hours in the mornings – this is despite the area having a population of over 32,700 people.
“People have to rely on Ashbourne Garda station outside of these hours, which is not an acceptable situation.
“I asked the Minister today to provide dates for when the boundaries will be redrawn to ensure that East Meath and Drogheda are in the same Garda district, and when we can expect Laytown Garda station to be extended and neither question was answered.
“It’s time the Minister prioritised this issue – the people have waited long enough. The Guerin report laid out in black and white what is needed in the Louth and East Meath areas in terms of policing, and we need the government to take action.
“There’s been plenty of time for talking and planning, now it’s time for delivery for the people of East Meath.”
