New local safety partnership set up

THE inaugural meeting of the Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) took place earlier this month in Carlow Town Hall chamber, marking a significant step in the national roll-out of the new community safety framework.

The LCSP brings together representatives from An Garda Síochána, Carlow County Council, education and youth services, business and voluntary sectors, community organisations and residents. The partnership will act as a collaborative local forum, ensuring that all relevant agencies and members of the community work together to identify local priorities and deliver effective, co-ordinated responses to improve safety and wellbeing across Co Carlow.

During the meeting, cllr Michael Doran was elected chairperson and cllr Fintan Phelan was elected vice-chairperson.

Cllr Doran said: “This new model places the community at the heart of decision-making. By bringing all the key partners together, we can address issues in a proactive and collaborative manner. I look forward to working with all members to strengthen safety and wellbeing across Carlow.” 

Cllr Fintan Phelan commented: “The LCSP is a real opportunity to deliver joined-up, community-focused solutions. We will be working collectively to ensure the priorities of local people shape the actions we take.” 

Coilín O’Reilly, chief executive of Carlow Co Council and member of the National Community Safety Steering Group, welcomed the establishment of the Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership.

“Carlow is embracing this new national approach, which recognises that community safety is a shared responsibility. The LCSP ensures that local voices and local expertise guide the development of targeted and meaningful actions. As a member of the national steering group, I am committed to supporting strong alignment between national policy and local delivery,” said Mr O’Reilly.

Supt Anthony Farrell also expressed his support for the new framework.

He said: “An Garda Síochána is delighted to support the establishment of the Carlow LCSP. Policing is a community effort and this new collaborative strategic focus will further strengthen our ability to deliver results with partner agencies. Here, we can work together to improve feelings of safety in our community, promote early intervention in causal factors and develop a more holistic response to community-based challenges.” 

The Carlow LCSP will now begin the process of developing a local community safety plan, which will be informed by community engagement, local data and the collective expertise of all partner organisations. This plan will guide multi-agency efforts to create safer, more resilient communities across Carlow.

The establishment of LCSPs in every local authority area supports the government’s stated commitment to a co-ordinated, whole-of-government approach to community safety, with prevention, early intervention and partnership at its core.