PICTURES: Forty years staying on the alert for crime in Laois

A Civic Reception was held in Laois County Council recently to honour four decades of Community Alert services provided by Muintir na Tíre in Laois. Laois senior Gardaí joined with Muintire na Tíre, now headed up by Rosie Palmer and Cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Walsh for the special event. Tap NEXT to view all the photos by Michael Scully.  Full story below.

Community Alert is a community safety programme for rural areas with an emphasis on older and vulnerable people. It operates as a partnership between the community, Gardaí and Muintir na Tíre. It works on the principle of shared responsibility for crime prevention, community safety and care.

The Cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Walsh had the honour of hosting the Reception. He spoke at the event in County Hall.

“Community Alert in Laois has a strong history with dedicated groups spanning the county. From Mountmellick to Durrow and Borris in Ossory to Ballylinan, groups are empowered to work in partnership with their local Gardaí, ensuring the vision of Community Alert is realised.

“The 40th anniversary is a great opportunity to reflect on the huge impact that Community Alert has in achieving that vision of safety in towns and villages across the county.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of Laois Muintir na Tíre for their hard work, commitment and dedication. Community Alert has been a success story, and we congratulate you on your 40th anniversary of Community Alert and wish you continued success in the future,” he said.

Rosie Palmer, Chief Executive Officer of Muintir na Tíre, accepting the Certificate of Achievement and an engraved silver salver in recognition of the organisation’s enduring service in Laois over the past four decades.

The Ballinakill resident thanked the Cathaoirleach and Council for the honour

“As a proud Laois woman, it is an honour to be here to recognise the work done by this partnership.

“We look forward to continuing to work with you to ensure communities in Laois and across the country are vibrant places to live, socialise, raise a family and grow old in,” she said.

The event was also attended by councillors Ollie Clooney, John Joe Fennelly, and Ben Brennan, representing the county’s three Municipal Districts, as well as Cllr Paddy Buggy and Cllr James Kelly.

Also present were Sean Fleming TD, the Council’s Director of Services Donal Brennan, Senior Executive Officer Pamela Tynan, Paula Hillman, Assistant Commissioner - Eastern Region, Superintendent Brian Farrell and other Gardaí as well as Community Alert Groups in Laois.