Tang Community Alert initiative is launched

Tang's Community Alert initiative was officially launched at the local community centre on Thursday evening last. The community alert programme was established in October in response to a rise in crime in the local community, particularly attacks on vulnerable people (including the elderly living alone). Community Alert is a voluntary crime prevention programme for the community to activate with Tang Muintir Community Council and An Garda Siochana in improving the quality of life and safety of the community in general. The most important element of Community Alert is that local people become more aware of the need to preserve the quality of life of those living in the locality, particularly those who are more vulnerable. It is also about raising the alertness and awareness of everybody to the presence of a person or vehicle acting suspiciously, and reporting it to the Gardai. Community Alert signage is now in place on the approach roads to Tang village and its environs which will make all individuals aware that the Alert Programme is active and in place. These signs have been erected in locations agreed with the County Council and are in line with the council's specifications. The programme intends to apply for funding from the Community Support Schemes for the elderly to enhance security within their homes. This scheme is administered by Tang Muintir Community Council (which has been in existence since 1999) and it is funded by the relevant Government bodies. Funding is available towards the one-off cost of installing socially monitored alarm systems and small items of physical security such as lighting, smoke alarms, door chains, window and door locks. A Text Alert Programme is also being set up and details are expected become available in the near future. Finally, Tang Muintir Community Council wishes to thank An Garda Siochana for all their help, support and encouragement in setting up Tang Community Alert. The Muintir Community Council would also like to stress that people should leave the responsibility of apprehending criminals with the Gardai - never ever challenge someone behaving in a suspicious manner or put your personal safety at risk. In conclusion: Be active, be alert, be involved.