At the recent meeting of the Castleisland and Corca Dhuibhne Municipal District, Cllr. Fionnán Fitzgerald raised a motion calling for the installation of CCTV cameras at the Ivy Leaf Arts Centre and St. Stephen’s Graveyard surrounding it.
“This is a beautiful area of the town and just seconds away from Main Street with a peaceful cemetery where relatives visit the resting places of their loved ones,” said Cllr. Fitzgerald.
Contacted by Distressed Locals
“In recent times I have been contacted by locals in the general area who are distressed at the loitering and poor behaviour on show especially late at night.
“This anti-social behaviour includes loud music, consumption of alcohol and the leaving of broken bottles etc around headstones of those gone before us,” Cllr. Fitzgerald continued.
Upsetting for Families
“This is no way to treat the ground in which loved ones are buried and is very upsetting for family members who have to view the obvious mess and clean it up.
“I have been in contact with local Gardaí on the matter and they have increased their surveillance of the area.
Cameras and Anti-Social Behaviour
“The erection of CCTV cameras in the walkway through the Ivy Leaf Arts Centre could greatly help stop anti-social behaviour, loitering and litter dumping.
“The balance between privacy and public duty is a very fine one and needs constant review and monitoring.
“While that is the case, an area of unique history and a resting ground for loved ones needs protecting,” Cllr. Fitzgerald concluded.
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