Dublin North West TD Noel Rock has today welcomed the increase in Garda presence in the Ballymun area, with additional Armed Support Unit resources being deployed to add to the regular local Gardai, while the local Gardai themselves are being given additional shifts.

Deputy Rock said: “Reports this morning highlighting how an armed robbery of a shop was stopped by Gardaí who were already inside the shop investigating CCTV highlights s how regular policing activity is continuing alongside the heightened Armed Support which has been supplied to our area by now-retired Commissioner Noirin O’Sullivan”.

Deputy Rock continued: “Some politicians have tried to make hay from claims that regular policing activity in Ballymun has been somehow abdicated or lessened as a consequence of the focus on the Armed Support Unit and the ongoing investigations there.

“This is clearly not the case. From conversations and meetings with the Minister for Justice, and with senior Gardaí in North Dublin, I am satisfied that every support necessary is being given, and last night’s incident proves that normal policing in Ballymun is continuing and – in fact – is strengthening.”

Deputy Rock concluded: “In the coming weeks, it is understood we will secure an additional two community Gardai – bringing the total from 8 to 10 in Ballymun, with additional Gardai also coming to Finglas and Santry. I am satisfied that these resources are being earmarked for Ballymun, Santry and Finglas after spending the last two years fighting for them”.

ENDS