Castleisland Chamber Alliance Chairman, Michael John Kearney, along with Cllr. Fionnán Fitzgerald and Cllr. Charlie Farrelly have sent messages of sheer disgust at last night’s wanton vandalism of the newly installed viewing point furniture.
I got a call from an extremely disappointed Seamus Fleming early this morning with the bad news from the area which was just beginning to show all the good signs of its long awaited makeover.
Last night’s vandals, whoever they may be, certainly expended a considerable degree of energy in their act of pure thuggery in smashing up the seat and table set which had been installed just yesterday.
Gardai from the Castleisland station took finger prints and other evidence from the scene early this morning as the full realisation of the damage was unfolding.
Up the Dubs
Several spaces further down the parking area, towards the town, someone had spray painted the tarmac with ‘Hill 16 Up the Dubs’ – which may or may not be associated with the vandalism of the furniture.
Seamus Fleming is one of the most ardent champions of the development of Glounsharoon and the one who discovered the vandalism this morning.
Seamus said that, if as a result of this vandalism overnight– a consequence is that the council now decide not to permit seating/dining/benches in future at Glounsharoon – then the vandals win.
CCTV at Glounsharoon
“The reaction from the KCC should be to deal with the issue head on and install CCTV at Glounsharoon.
“The council reaction must not be to ban benches at Glounsharoon in future over this incident.
“Society and the community should not be at a loss and punished because of the behaviour of a few criminal,” Mr. Fleming continued.
“The resource at Glounsharoon is too important and has far too much exceptional tourism potential to permit a few imbeciles destroying this vision for everyone!
Unsavoury Sub-Culture
“The tail must not wag the dog. This unsavoury sub-culture behaviour that emerges nocturnally can and must be addressed.
“These people live amongst us and at the same time they engage in this criminal activity!
“An immediate step: there is a high pole in the KCC yard for lighting that would be ideal for a CCTV installation.
Nail the Criminals Involved
This would prevent other anti social behaviour such as young drivers congregating at night in ‘souped-up’ cars and doing ‘wheelies’ and revving late at night at Glounsharoon also.
“CCTV would also prevent illegal dumping at Glounsharoon – another plague.
“The community needs to address the issue and help the Gardai to nail those criminals involved,” said a clearly angry Mr. Fleming.
Castleisland Gardai are investigating and were on the scene early this morning. The Garda confidential line is: 1800 666 111. Castleisland Garda Station Tel: 066 71 41204
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