Joint Policing Committees can find solutions to local problems – Conway

Fine Gael Clare Senator and Seanad Spokesperson on Disability and Equality, Martin Conway, has called on his fellow Senators to support the Fine Gael Private Members Motion which calls on the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD, to improve the operation of Joint Policing Committees (JPC) throughout the country.

“JPCs provide a forum where a local authority and the senior Garda officers responsible for the policing of that area consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of the area with the participation of Oireachtas members and community interests.

“I am convinced that we need to deal with crime at a local level. Whilst JPCs do great work throughout the country in identifying, raising awareness of and finding solutions for issues impacting on, or causing concerns for the local community, I believe the role of JPCs could be enhanced and strengthened.

“I welcome the new revised guidelines for the operation of JPCs which were recently published by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD and the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly TD, to reflect the significant reforms to local government.

“However, I believe that more can still be done to support the excellent work of JPCs.   I will be urging the Minister to build on my motion and to revolutionise our local community policing system though the introduction of enhanced community participation and the provision for greater input from various stakeholders who are not JPC members.”