New funding for Garda Text Alert schemes

New funding has been announced for Garda Text Alert schemes in counties Cavan and Monaghan. The allocation to such groups is being doubled to €350,000.

Minister for Rural Affairs Heather Humphreys confirmed the funding today, which is designed to support crime prevention in the Cavan and Monaghan division.

Justice Minister Francis Fitzgerald allocated the money, which now also incorporates a new €100,000 rebate scheme for local groups registered under the Garda Text Alert Scheme.

“This funding will go directly to local groups here across the constituency. I would encourage Text Alert groups in Cavan and Monaghan to apply to Muintir na Tire for the rebate as soon as possible, and at the latest by the end of October 2016. Applications can be made by completing a simple form which is available online at Muintir.ie or on request from rebates@muintir.ie. Alternatively, interested groups can call Muintir na Tire on 062–51163.

“Text Alert Groups are a great crime prevention initiative. They are wonderful example of people working with their local Gardai to protect and support their community,' said Minister Humphreys who added that the FIne Gael-led government is committed to prioritising community crime prevention schemes, including Text Alert. 'This new funding is a tangible example of that,' she said.

“The Gardai have made huge progress since the launch of Operation Thor last year and we have seen a reduction of one third in burglaries nationwide. We now have specific legislation to deal with repeat burglary offenders and particularly the organised gangs who have targeted many rural communities here in Cavan and Monaghan, and across Ireland.

“Fine Gael remains fully committed to providing An Garda Síochána with the means to continue to face down criminals and protect communities. Our party is committed to supporting communities across Ireland and I am committed to ensuring that the support is felt here in Cavan and Monaghan. We are working to ensure that the economic recovery, which is now underway, reaches all parts of the country and the benefits are felt inside every doorstep and in every community.”