PRESS RELEASE21/04/2005 Labour must back plans to end anti-social behaviour - Kelleher Cork North-Central Fianna Fáil TD Billy Kelleher has challenged Labour leader Pat Rabbitte to support the Government’s tough stance on anti-social behaviour. Deputy Kelleher, who is the Government deputy chief whip, said Deputy Rabbitte should row in behind the Government on its proposed anti-social behaviour orders rather than resorting to his trademark sniping and snide remarks. ‘When launching its document on anti-social behaviour today [Friday], I hope that Deputy Rabbitte does not scurry from the Taoiseach’s full support for anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) outlined in the Dáil this week. ‘Deputy Rabbitte should do the responsible thing and back the Government’s pragmatic and realistic approach to stamping out anti-social behaviour in cities around the country. So far, he has spinelessly shunned real solutions that make people feel safer on the streets and in their homes. ‘I have no confidence in his plans to rein in yobs and vandals after his bluster and pantomime in the Dáil this week. There, he seemed to acknowledge that we have a problem but offered no solutions. I am concerned about the publication of his document today. In fact, I’m dreading it,’ said Deputy Kelleher. ‘I have been an unwavering proponent of anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) and I am delighted that the Taoiseach has backed proposals in the Criminal Justice Bill, saying “they’re now necessary to stop a small band of hooligans”.’ Deputy Kelleher pointed out that the number of gardaí allocated to Tallaght Garda station in Deputy Rabbitte’s own constituency has increased by 27.8pc since January 1998. There is unprecedented investment in sports, arts and community projects which give young people an alternative to crime. ‘I hope that the Labour Party comes out in support of the Government’s realistic stance on anti-social behaviour today. It is time for the party to get off the fence and get real about crime,’ said Deputy Kelleher. ENDS
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