Councillor Higgins proposes late night soccer leagues in Knocknacarra to tackle recent activity in the area

Fine Gael Councillor Clodagh Higgins has proposed the introduction of late night soccer leagues in Knocknacarra in order to tackle recent activity in the area which has led to Covid-19 guidelines being breached by mainly teenagers.

Councillor Higgins said “I believe this is an excellent opportunity for Gardai and youths in the area to engage on a meaningful level and it will act to improve community relations going forward”.

Councillor Higgins continued “I believe these leagues will act as a policing tool and develop informal channels of communication and overall improve community relations. I have spoken to Inspector Brian Ryan of Salthill Gardai Station who was very supportive of the proposal”. 

Councillor Higgins said “I believe an initiative of this nature would pay dividends as the programme will encourage at risk young people to participate in meaningful activities thus reducing anti social behaviour however it is extremely important that the programme is run correctly”.

“This proposal  would result in Gardai playing in the leagues with the youths of the area. It will be a great opportunity for them to engage with young people and build relationships in a social environment. It is important to put forward initiatives as it has been a very difficult year for youths”. 

Councillor Higgins continued “Over the past twelve months Gardai have had a difficult job to do in policing restrictions which has had an impact on community relations and it is important these relationships are kept intact as this will have a positive impact for all”.

Councillor Higgins concluded “I will be enlisting the support and help of our soon to be appointed FAI Officer along with Galway Sports Partnership and youth clubs in the area in order to have a proper structure in place in order to ensure its success”.