Limerick families sleeping in shifts living in fear of petrol bombs

A SINN FÉIN TD has called on the Minister for Justice to ensure there is a “robust” garda response to ongoing gang violence in Limerick city.

Deputy Maurice Quinlivan said that innocent lives are at risk and something needs to be done urgently. 

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“In recent weeks there has been an escalation in the use of violence amidst ongoing criminality in Limerick. We have seen violence escalate to dramatic proportions, particularly in the Ballinacurra Weston and surrounding areas. 

“Unfortunately for fear of criminal retaliation, much of this violence has gone unreported. The most recent incidents have included gun and arson attacks on homes, assault of persons in the area and the threat of violence against others.”

He added that this will bring back memories of the violence which dominated the city and national newspaper headlines more than 20 years ago. 

“Limerick people will vividly recall the violent criminality that plagued our city in the early 2000s. Without robust intervention, I fear we are not far from a return to those dark days.”

Speaking in the Dáil, the TD said: “I have been in contact with stakeholders within the community and I assure you that the concerns I raise are echoed by many across the community. 

“Frustrations are building with many feeling the garda response has not gone far enough. I believe the gardaí in Limerick are doing their job in some of the most challenging of circumstances. However, I feel that more support is needed for them to combat this increase in gang violence.”

He added that some families impacted are taking it in turns to sleep, so that someone is constantly on watch. 

“Some sleep while others guard the front door or monitor the CCTV cameras - doing so for fear of a petrol bomb being lobbed at their house.”

Deputy Quinlivan has said that Minister Jim O’Callaghan is welcome to visit the city to see what is happening firsthand. 

“I urge the Minister to visit the area, talk to the residents and support local gardaí with all resources needed to halt this brazen affront to the rule of law and the community.

“We, in Limerick, have had some challenges with criminality in a small minority of areas, they can be fixed. 

“These are areas where the good people of these communities despise the organised crime gangs and their criminality. 

“They simply want to go to work, school, enjoy their retirement and want a change.”