Call on Westmeath communities to set up text alert systems

Muintir na Tíre has issued a call to communities in Westmeath and Roscommon to set up text alert initiatives in a bid to cut crime in rural areas. Conor O'Leary, Development officer for Muintir na Tíre thanked all the community alert groups who have already set up text programmes and he also urged communities who have not already done so to contact Muintir na Tíre for guidance and support in setting up the initiative. Groups who have already set up community text alert initiatives have reported many benefits including a reduction in crime, communities feel safer, increased communication amongst local residents via the text system and more communication between An Garda Siochána and the community. Groups also said they found that there was better relations between An Garda Siochána and the community as a result and it is a way to get information to the community instantly. It also offers increased peace of mind to our older and vulnerable citizens many living in rural isolated areas. Muintir Na Tire in partnership with An Garda Síochana has been responsible for the roll out of the very successful Community Alert Programme over the past 25 years. Muintir na Tíre appreciates the support the Community Alert programme is receiving from the national Community Organisations, i.e. GAA, IFA, Macra, ICMSA, ICA,This helps to strengthen the Community Alert structure and ensure the successful implementation of the Community Alert Text Initiative. For further information please contact Conor O'Leary 086/6000753 or Muintir Head Office (062) 51163 or e-Mail headoffice@muintir.ie