PRESS RELEASE

12/01/2006

Time to move on ASBOs as Cork’s anti-social scourge worsens - Kelleher

Cork North-Central Fianna Fáil TD Billy Kelleher has said it time for Justice Minister Michael McDowell to introduce anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) after fresh evidence emerged this week that Cork city’s problem with anti-social behaviour is getting worse.

Deputy Kelleher said it was clear ASBOs were needed to deal instantly with thugs who are terrorising housing estates and destroying parks, green areas and amenities such as gyms and swimming pools in Cork city.

‘We have got to tackle this problem soon and I believe ASBOs will give gardaí an immediate tool to deal with trouble-makers. If an individual or group is persistently causing trouble in a housing estate or park, they should no longer be allowed into that area. That is the essence of the ASBO - a near-instant barring order that protects decent people living in that community.

‘Cork City Council dealt with almost 90 new cases of anti-social behaviour by its tenants last year. Typical examples of such behaviour can involve harassment and bullying by intimidating youths or serious noise pollution from loud stereos or musical instruments.

‘I have met people who are terrorised in their own homes. Some elderly people are afraid to step outside their own front doors in some areas in Cork city. A small number of thugs should not be allowed to hold everyone else to ransom,’ said Deputy Kelleher, who last year visited Leicester in England where ASBOs have transformed whole communities.

‘It is time Minister McDowell introduced ASBOs as part of the Criminal Justice Bill. The time for talking is over. Troubled residents living in communities struck by low-level crime want to see movement on our plans to make them safer on the streets and in their homes. I will shortly be in touch with Minister McDowell about bringing in ASBOs before anti-social behaviour in Cork gets even worse than it already is,’ said Deputy Kelleher.

ENDS