EARLIER STARTS OR ‘MEETINGS ON THE MOVE’ BEING CONSIDERED BY YOUGHAL COMMUNITY ALERT.

By Christy Parker

Youghal & District Community Alert group is considering options that might boost attendances at its monthly meetings. Amongst the measures being contemplated are switching to morning or afternoon meetings instead of  the present 7.45 pm  and with increased accent on providing a community information service and regular guest speakers. Meetings may convene in bar or function rooms, with accompanying refreshments. This would replicate November’s meeting, which was held in the Nook bar on a midweek morning and attracted some new faces and favourable observations. On the downside, it is known that some people were not comfortable with attending a pub (let alone in the morning to hear warnings on drug abuse!).

Another alternative would see the group remain in situ at Cumann na Daoine but times during the day or evening to facilitate those attending other events to proceed to the Community Alert meeting thereafter. A further innovation being considered is to rotate meetings in various residential centres in co-operation with various community committees and where there would be particular emphasis on issues within that community or estate, etc. One argument however against change is that fluctuating meeting times is probably not for the best.

The issue was raised at December’s meeting by Chairman Des Davis, before a handful of regulars who have emerged as the group’s core and driving force. The poor attendances can be interpreted in several ways, not all of which are negative. The absence of serious crime (at the risk of tempting fate) probably dilutes interest, while the media coverage perhaps provides many people with sufficient information on developments.

Equally, it was observed at December’s meeting, elderly people in particular are reluctant to travel at night due to the cold and darkness and the cost and requirement of public transport. “Besides, without tea and scones, it’s very hard to get anyone to come out at night anyway!”, noted one man at December’s meeting.

Having existed, albeit relatively dormant, for many years through the efforts of founder Moss Lynch, the Y&DCA was effectively re-launched three years ago following a ‘Halloween nightmare’ of vandalism and criminality on the main streets. The circumstances saw the early meetings well attended. In later times, quality has surpassed quantity, enabling the group to bring indelible improvement to the community. This is reflected particularly in the acquisition and installation of over 100 socially monitored alarms along with formation of the highly valued Care and Repair service and the Community Bus initiative which were offshoots of the local Community Alert movement.

Yet, as the chairman stressed, larger attendances such as convenes at community alert meetings in other jurisdictions, remains an ambition. The matter will be discussed further at January’s meeting.

Earlier, December’s meeting saw Mossie Murphy circulate his treasurer’s report, which showed current assets at €1,759.45.

Crime Statistics

Community Garda Peter Queally then provided crime statistics covering the period October to December. These were as follows: Thefts: 7; Assaults: 2, including one serious incident that coincided with the burning of a hearse and a couple of burglaries, all of which were perpetrated by the same people on one particular night. Arrests had been made and court proceedings were anticipated;

Drugs: 9 for possession (own use) and 2 for sale and supply;

Criminal Damage: 6, some of which involved stones and eggs being thrown on Halloween night. The garda pinpointed an increase in antisocial behaviour in the town, particularly in the vicinity of the College Gardens and Adoration Chapel but also on the main street. He said ASBOs had been issued and more would follow, along with whatever measures the gardaí deemed necessary to problem including, in due course, court proceedings. In response to an inquiry from the floor, he clarified that ASBOs can also be served on adults;

Theft/MPV (breaking into and stealing from private vehicles) 2: Garda Queally stressed that goods and valuables should be concealed form view at all times to discourage this common and simple crime;

Drunk Driving: 3; Domestic Incidents (violence in the home): 5, which were referred to the HSE; Burglaries: 3; Underage Drinking: 1; Public Order Offences: 7.

The chairman Des Davis welcomed evidence that an increasing amount of people appear to be availing of services that assist in treatment for drug problems. He added however, that prevention being better than cure, the community at large should not cease to consider ways to dissuade people, particularly the young, from falling into the trap of drug taking in the first place.

Alarms

Garda Queally said there had been about 30 socially monitored alarms installed over the past year, at a grant-aided cost of €6,600. Currently, the group owed about €600 to alarm installation company TASK, in lieu of different alarm pendants and watches, re-installation of alarms handed back, etc. It was agreed to pay this forthwith.

From the floor it was mooted that people in rural areas be prioritised for future alarm installations as several people in town had changed their minds about retaining the devices. A reluctance to pay the €60 annual maintenance fee was cited as a prime reason for this. However it was decided that any discrimination in the installation of alarms would be a mistake in practice.

Garda Queally said uptake on smoke alarms remained low. Simultaneously, it was noted, individuals who had applied for smoke alarms were experiencing delays in acquiring them because there needed to be about ten or so applications made before Cork County Council would provide them. Garda Queally said the delay was also due to the county council’s failure to return some application forms that had been forwarded to the wrong department.

Carbon monoxide

Community Alert Treasurer Michael Beecher drew attention to the issue of carbon monoxide alarms. He said they were available for €29 in hardware shops. He stressed the inherent danger of (odourless) carbon monoxide emissions in particular at Christmas, where extra electrical could prompt sudden energy surges. The group agreed to consider the possibility of subsidising such alarms for those who could not afford them. This will be considered more fully at January’s meeting along while the possibility that currently available smoke alarms also monitor carbon monoxide is also to be investigated.

Attention then turned to a house in the town that has become available for rent, as a voice from the floor asked whether a plea from the group could be made to the landlord that the incoming resident/s would be of good character. The issue was raised on foot of a death having occurred in the premises previously and consider distress having been incurred subsequently by a neighbour who was mourning the passing of close relative at the time. Another contributor suggested the “residents’ network” make recommendation. Garda Queally said he would recommend that the gardaí follow up the issue and this was agreed.

The next Community Alert meeting will be held in Cuman na Daoine on Tuesday January 3rd at 7.45 pm

end

COMMUNITY ALERT MEETING HEARS GIVEN SAFETY IN THE HOME ADVICE. – By Christy Parker

Christy Parker concludes his review of November’s Youghal and District Community Alert meeting.

Amongst the speakers at November’s Youghal and District Community Alert meeting, which convened as a morning session at the Nook bar, was Diarmuid Cronin, Southern Garda Region, (Counties Kerry Cork), Development Officer.

Mr. Cronin delivered a brief but highly informative talk on the nature and need for Community Alert in communities, with particular emphasis on safety amongst the elderly. “Community Alert goes back 25 years and is an east Cork/Churchtown South development (co-founded by Youghal strand resident Moss Lynch),” he began. “It is a partnership between An Garda, local communities and Munitir na Tíre and is sanctioned by the Department of Justice.”

The speaker said there are about 200 groups active in the region, each with its own distinctive character, depending on the number and general profile of its membership. “There is a huge diversity and every organisation is a reflection on of the members’ ambitions and interests,” he explained. “My role is simply to assist in whatever way needed,” he added.

Most vulnerable

Mr. Cronin proceeded that “one of hardest tasks for any Community Alert group is researching and defining who is vulnerable and what makes them so. From my experience, I think those most vulnerable are those who have withdrawn into themselves and so live with very few friends or perhaps no friends at all. This is far more common than you can ever imagine,” he observed, warning that “there are many people in your community now who do not have a network of people around them and so have nobody contacting them on a reasonably regular basis. If something goes wrong, such as a fall an accident, nobody knows.”

Underlining the point, the official described an incidence in east Cork in recent months whereby an elderly woman had spent 15 days on the floor of her kitchen before being discovered. “She had been an active, out-and-about sort of person but didn’t have close friends or neighbours. We can’t imagine the horror of what she endured during that time,” he said.

Personal alarms

Such terrible occurrences have contributed to the awareness and installation of hundreds of thousands of centrally monitored personal alarm systems throughout Ireland, the meeting heard. The appliances are free of charge, other than a small yearly maintenance fee. Application forms are available from the garda station (or from Community Garda Peter Queally in Youghal) and installation is performed through Community Alert personnel.

The alarms system enables the wearer to press a panic button on a wristband or pendant, which quickly brings a response from someone in the monitoring station. Mr Cronin outlined how the user’s personal and medical details are instantly activated on a screen in the monitoring station, when the button is pressed, alongside a series of numbers (family, friends, local gardaí, etc.) to contact for assistance. “If they cannot hear the wearer or if the situation demands it, they immediately summon help,” he said.

The speaker stressed strongly the importance of those acquiring such availing of the service to wear or carry the ‘panic button’ apparatus at all times and “not hang it off the dressier Sacred Heart picture where it will be useless if needed.”

The official also reassured that accidental activation of the button was part and parcel of the system and “in no way inconvenienced the monitoring station personal at all. In fact they are quite glad to find that the button is working perfectly and will usually advise people to test it out regularly to reassure themselves. They get up to 70,000 such accidental alerts per year,” he added.

About 100 such alarms systems have been installed in Youghal in the past two years, both for people living alone and with partners or family. The only stipulation is that the applicant must be 65 years of age or over.

Responding to the floor, Mr. Croinin illustrated further the vital role played by socially monitored alarms in protecting the elderly. “Three Christmases ago a man in Kerry was burning rubbish on a bonfire when he fell into it,” he commenced. “He pressed the button and the alarm alerted the monitors. He pressed it repeatedly for five minutes and every time someone in the station responded, meaning he had three different people actively summoning help form three different sources for him. They knew it was very serious and so three individuals and the local gardaí dashed to his aid. He was very seriously burned, spent months in hospital but is hale and hearty now and still tending his garden. The device saved him.”

Fires

The recollection diverted the focus to fire risk in general. Mr. Cronin said Community Alert programmes had seen the death rate through fire in Cork fall from the highest in Ireland to the lowest in six years. The statistic behind the decrease is that 90% of people who die in fires die unnecessarily, he revealed.

Amongst various information sheets on personal and home security that were available through Mr. Cronin, the following offers timely advice pertaining particularly to stove fires in the season of cheer and home fires burning: i) Children are particularly susceptible to serious burns from a stove so place a safeguard round the apparatus; ii) never use lighter fuel, diesel or kerosene to light a fire; iii) clean your chimney a least once yearly and inspect it monthly for soot or creosote accumulation; iv) be absolutely certain that your stove is properly vented; v) clean the stove or fireplace frequently; vi)  Use ash or oak firewood preferably as they burn hottest and for longer; vii) keep firewood covered, off the ground and not touching any building as air circulation dries it better.

In the event of sustaining burns, it is advisable to: i) cool the area immediately by soaking it in cold water; ii) avoid using ice as it can further damage the skin; iii) never use creams or oils in the immediate aftermath but instead apply a hydro gel type dressing or a smooth, cool damp cloth; iv) do not pop burn blisters as that leaves the area prone to infection; v) if a burn is serious go straight to a hospital; vi) do not try to remove clothing stuck to the skin by a burn as this may peel off skin or tissue; vii) if burned around the eyes or mouth or have trouble opening them remain still as possible and await medical help; viii) if possible elevate the burned area so that it is higher than your heart, but if the neck is burned lies prone until medical assistance arrives.

Home Safety Check List

The attendance was also provided with a Safety Checklist to reduce the risk of fall in the home. Amongst the recommendations are:

All rooms: i)No loose carpeting or rugs with non-slip backing; ii) dispose of mat edges that can cause trips; iii) remove furniture from traffic areas; iv) tape wires to walls; v) ensure all lights are working.

Stairs and Inclines: i) remove items from steps; ii) ensure room for easy movement at top and bottom of stairs; iii) no loose carpeting or upturned edges; iv) handrails securely attached and at appropriate height; v) proper lighting and switches at either end of stairs; v) handrail on inner wall along with bannister.

Bathroom:  i) Properly mounted grab bars near tub, shower and toilet; ii) non-slip surfaces in tub and shower; iii) nightlights in rooms; iv) non-slip maths ad rugs; shower/tub bench or seat.

Bedroom: i) Bedside table with non-tip lamp and room for eye glasses; ii) clear access between bedroom and bathroom; iii) comfortable sturdy chair to aid dressing; iv) emergency Bulkhead light in case of electricity cut outs.

Kitchen: i) Items reachable without a stool; ii) sturdy high stool for use during food preparation; iii) flooring free of cracks or upturned edges.

Individual: i) Socially monitored alarm working ok and familiar with use; ii) someone to check on individual daily; iii) schedule annual medical check-up; iv) discuss medications with physician to determine effects on balance; v) establish light exercise routine.

The next Community Alert meeting is on Tuesday December 6th in Cumann na Daoine at 7.45 pm.

Youghal And District Community Alert November Meeting In The Nook. – By Christy Parker

THE YOUGHAL AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY ALERT (YDCA) GROUP held its November meeting in the Nook bar on Thursday morning the 17th by way of augmenting its public profile. The officers present were Des Heffernan, chairman and Michael Beecher, PRO.

Amidst the comfort of a winter fire and complimentary tea, coffee and scones, the gathering was addressed by three speakers, while copious amounts of advisory and information literature on crime, alcohol and drug abuse and personal security was also distributed.

An Garda

PRO Sergeant John Sharkey eschewed the regular crime report to deliver a general summary of garda work in the locality and to take questions from the floor. The sergeant outlined that he is one of four sergeants plus 20 other gardaí and one civilian officer at the station. The service operates om a maximum base of one sergeant and five gardaí per shift across three shifts every 24 hours. He stressed that when the station closes at 10 pm, there remains a full complement of gardaí patrolling the general locality and under instruction from Midleton headquarter. “People should never hesitate to call us,” he added. “Calls are never a nuisance and are always valued.  It’s far better to be safe than sorry. Likewise, if you are unhappy with the Garda service in any way, please report it to a sergeant or any senior officer, as you would with any service provider. ”

Crime

Crime-wise, Sergeant Sharkey said Youghal was generally quiet at present, probably due in some measure to various Garda and community initiatives that focus on the principal of each individual being central to protecting their own property. This in turn created a culture of protectionism across the community that deterred would-be criminals.

Nonetheless, he said, there were issues of concern, particularly underage drinking and anti-social behaviour, as epitomised on Halloween night for example. Equally, unacceptably disruptive behaviour in the town in recent weeks had seen Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) issued to several young people. This effectively banned them from the main street and other areas for three month, with further action towards building a case towards court proceedings, following failure to comply.

The sergeant also referred to the important role played by Community Garda Peter Queally, underlining the crucial link between the town’s individuals, groups and organisations and Garda effectiveness.  In a similar vein, he promoted the monthly Community Alert meetings as an important mechanism by which the public and An Garda can interact with the public and build confidence and trust. Again he urged the community to ring the gardaí if harbouring any concerns or suspicions about anyone or anything.

Such an approach was particularly relevant to the rising level of rural crime, especially housebreaking and burglaries. Such perpetrators would drive or walk an area and he encouraged people to note unusual behaviour, note details such as car makes, colours and number plates and, especially, exercise caution when presented with yarns or offers that would incur entrance a stranger’s entrance to one’s home or the production of one’s money. It was important also to realise that many con artists will pose as health officials, civil servants, construction workers, gardaí, nurses, etc. The theft of car keys from homes was a current trend, the garda also reminded, urging they be kept in a secure location.

Sergeant Sharkey further warned about urban scams, often with gangs confusing shopkeepers with elaborate tactics in seeking change, or ‘buying’ expensive items with bogus credit numbers, etc.

Likewise the internet, he elaborated, was now a minefield of deception. Various incidents were relayed from the floor, including strangers interceding Facebook accounts in pretence of being stranded family member and seeking transference of money abroad for assistance. Bogus e-mails or phone calls seeking bank account details or pin numbers were also prevalent.  Youghal Garda station is on (024) 92200.

Care and Repair

An interesting and informative question-and-answer session followed between the attendance and the sergeant before spokesman for the Care and Repair movement Pat Carey took the microphone. Mr Carey explained that Care and Repair currently consisted of about nine volunteers who, working in pairs, conduct light repair work of behalf of the elderly (over 65’s). The service is co-ordinated through Cumann na Daoine, he said and all volunteers are Garda vetted, he assured.

Mr Carey advised that the group’s insurance does not cover heavy duty work such as general plumbing or electrical projects. A year in existence, the service averages one job per week now. The average time spent on a job is three hours daily but return visits are accommodated. Usually a job is undertaken within two days of being requested.  Care and Repair is a free, non- profit making  service, he proceeded, other than the provision of materials, though voluntary contributions (which some clients prefer to pay) are accepted on behalf of Cumann na Daoine. Gardening, painting, decorating, household repairs and alarm installation feature highly on the retinue “but no job is too small,” said the speaker. I response to an inquiry, he said the group operates within a three mile radius of the town.  Cumann na Daoine is on (024) 91900.

Drugs

The third speaker was Eddie McBride, new Youghal-based community drugs worker with the Southern Regional Drugs Task Force, replacing Eric Trihy. Mr McBride, from Waterford, said his background was in youth community development and family support pertinent to drugs issues. He was now charged, through Foróige, with co-ordinating drug abuse amongst the 14 to 24 age groups. The methodology centred firstly on “Education and Prevention,” he explained and secondly –for those already victims of the drug culture- “harm reduction.”

The official explained how his work entailed much liaising with Community Garda Queally on an advisory, as against a criminal, basis. Mr McBride brought interesting analysis to his address, not least informing that the “number one drug of choice and the one that caused the most upheaval in people’s lives is alcohol.” Given the setting it was an ironic equation. In terms of common usage, alcohol, he outlined, precedes cannabis and then opiates. Heroin exists in every town and village but it isn’t of prime concern, he stressed.

Mr. McBride said that in 2010 “63 individuals and 77 parents or concerned persons” in Youghal had sought help from the service he was now managing. He welcomed the statistic as evidence of increasing numbers realising their difficulties and actively seeking a solution towards better lives.

Interestingly, the speaker also dismissed a direct link between crime and drug use as considerably exaggerated. Amongst his other assertions is all drug issues are individual-based, with society comprised of communities, comprised of families, comprised of individual. He further advised that introduction to drugs are usually through ‘friends, peers or family, with alcohol generally involved. These and other matters relevant to his posting will be considered in an interview with Mr McBride in an upcoming issue of Youghal News. Eddie can be contacted on (024) 90793 / 086 3842183 for confidential advice and support.

The fourth and final speaker of the morning was Dermot Cronin, Community Alert Development Officer – Southern Garda Region. The next edition of Youghjal News will contain a report on Mr. Cronin’s address.

Gardai Seeking Help With Halloween Investigations – By Christy Parker

YOUGHAL GARDAI are seeking help with their investigations into a number of anti-social incidences that occurred in the town on Halloween night and over the half-term school break. Community Garda Peter Queally says tow of the more serious incidents involved the smashing of rear windows in a taxi and a CIE bus.

On Halloween night (Monday October 31st), an egg-throwing episode developed to the point that the rear window of a tax was smashed. The incident occurred at about 10.10 pm in the Bawnmore area. “This caused a lot of distress and we are seeking witnesses or information on this incident,” says Garda Queally.

On Thursday 27th November, at approximately 7.30 pm, a stone shattered the rear window of a Bus Eireann vehicle. The missile was hurled in the vicinity of Barry’s Lane, while the window actually caved inwards on reaching the other end of town.

The garda says the local deployment of six gardai across three squad cars dealt with a continuous series of anti-social incident on Halloween night.  Several individuals had been arrested and the juvenile Liaison officer would be addressing the situation with them and their parents or guardians.

ASBO’s:

Elaborating, Garda Queally remarks that an outbreak of similar behaviour patterns last year had resulted in ASBOs being issued to good effect. “We are keen to tackle this latest trend very quickly and in similar fashion if need be,” he says. “So we would like the traders or anyone else in the town to inform of us of any incidents and to provide us were possible, with descriptions of alleged culprits.” The garda stresses that “there is no such thing as a call that wastes our time. We welcome every call no matter how trivial it may seem and we have the resources to process them.” He adds, “It’s important that we issue ASBO’s now, where necessary, as their three-month timespan would prohibit the recipients from visiting certain areas over Christmas.”

The garda is less than complimentary towards outlets that sold large volumes of eggs to young miscreants over Halloween “Did they think they were dealing with up-and-coming chefs?!” he asks caustically.

Several incidents of underage drinking were also detected over the mid-term break. “The worse offenders here are those who supply the alcohol,” observes the garda. “There are certain areas and times when this crime now arises and we will remain focused on it.”

Burglaries:

In other incidents, last Wednesday night (Nov 2nd), the Lagile area –just outside Killeagh on the Youghal side- two houses were burgled and articles were also taken from an unlocked car. Gardaí are seeking information or witnesses to the incidences which occurred between 5 and 6 pm.

Several drug arrests occurred in Youghal in the past week also. “There were four Section 3’s (own use) and one Section 15 (dealing) detected,” concludes Garda Queally.

COMMUNITY ALERT NOTICE: November’s Community Alert meeting takes place in the Red Store at 11 am. The meeting will be addressed by Muintir na Tííre development officer Diarmuid  Cronin, while a youth drug officer and a local Care and Repair representative will also speak to the gathering. Questions from the floor will be welcomed. Free refreshment will also be provided.

Loneliness And Isolation Features Highly At Youghal Community Alert AGM.
By Christy Parker

CONCERN over lonely and isolated elderly people and was a prominent issued raised at October’s Youghal and District Community Alert meeting. The occasion was also the group’s AGM and was conducted in Cumann na Daoine following the unavailability of the Walter Raleigh hotel.

Outgoing chairman Michael Beecher commenced proceedings by asking Pa Forrest to deliver the treasurer’s report, which showed a current balance of €1,043.45 from an opening sum of €905.08. A Red Store coffee morning with guest speakers had brought a debit of €120 while the annual church gate collection month collected €1,042.35.

Crime report

Community Garda Peter Queally delivered the monthly crime report, while deviating from previous practice in largely not identifying specific times and areas. There had been just one theft from a shop over the previous month and two general thefts and gardai had conducted 10 street drug searches of which there were three arrests for possession. Six public order incidents were detected, three burglaries -one of which was aggravated burglary- had occurred, alongside three criminal damage offences and one drink driving arrest.

The aggravated burglary had occurred in the Quality Hotel at approximately 5.30 am on September 12th. The night porter had disturbed an intruder, who launched a brief attack. Nothing had been stolen and an investigation is on-going.

Garda Queally said October and November are prime months for burglaries and advised that property owners take all common sense precautions, such as securing doors and windows, keeping valuable possessions concealed and also being mindful of elderly neighbours, etc.  He described how recently a local woman, 87 and accustomed all her life to keeping her door open, was visited by two men. They demanded money and when told she had none, asked for her bank details. “She was sharp enough to change the last two digits,” revealed the garda, “but it illustrates the danger. A neighbour had seen the walk in but had presumed they were relatives or something.”

Underage drinking

The garda said Sergeant John Sharkey had addressed the Junior Cert and transition year students, but nonetheless there had been three incidents of underage drinking detected following the exam results. The miscreants had been brought to their homes and details referred to the Juvenile Liaison Officer for further pursuance. “It was a busy enough night and the real perpetrators were those that acquired the alcohol for them,” he proceeded, adding gratefully that the night had produced “no public order incidences.”

New committee

Before new officers were elected, outgoing chairman Michael Beecher thanked all who had participated in the group’s work during his tenure. He paid tribute also to those who assisted with installing 21 socially monitored alarms lately, noting that willing hands remained available to accompany the chief installer, ‘Joe from Wexford,’ in installing the outstanding 10 alarms form the current tranche of 31. Garda Queally proposed that food money for the installers should be provided from the group’s finances on such occasions and this was agreed. Mr. Beecher further thanked outgoing committee secretary Kaye Curtain and likewise treasurer Pa Forrest, regular attendees, members of the media and the Walter Raleigh for its excellent co-operation in providing meeting space.

The new committee was then elected, with Desmond Davis proposed as chairman from the floor and elected unopposed. Des, as he is known, is a Wicklow man resident in Youghal for over three years and is also chairman of the Care and Repair project. Michael Beecher swapped chairs to assume the role of secretary, again unopposed, while Moss Heaphy takes over as treasurer from Pa Forrest.

Attendances

The first issue to confront the new committee came from the floor when ideas were sought by which to attract greater numbers to the monthly meetings. That attendances in recent months have been quite small, is probably due to several factors; primarily the relatively low level of crime in the area, people reluctant to travel at night to a meeting, especially in bad weather and  -according to the group generally- detailed  coverage from the local media addressing people’s curiosity.

Following some discussion, it was decided that November’s meeting will be a morning session at the Red Store, with complimentary tea/coffee and scones. It is hoped that the convenience of time and venue will entice elderly members of the community to attend but also family members and anyone with questions or concerns regarding any aspect of community or personal security.

Alone, lonely and vulnerable

There was considerable discussion on the plight of what initiatives the group could make to address the issue of elderly people alone and vulnerable. That there is a widespread, sad and silent problem out there was evident from the testimony of those who had helped to install the monitored alarms and those involved with the Care and Repair project. Several spoke of the intense loneliness being experienced by many people in Youghal in the latter years of their lives.

They described how elderly people, often ignored by their own family, welcomed tradespeople into their homes as much if not more, for the social interaction as for the work at hand. “We chatted over tea for a couple of hours in her kitchen. There was no fire lighting and no television on. She said that every day was just so lonely. It was heart breaking,” testified one speaker.

From the floor a woman said she had volunteered to join the Care and Repair programme as a companion/assistant for the elderly during worker visit. There was a waiting list however and she wondered how she could become involved. It was explained that currently two tradespersons attended a job but consideration was now being given towards replacing one of those with a companion. The Care and Repair project was currently mostly in need of drivers however so this would be a valuable asset to bring to any involvement.

Re-visits

Garda Queally wondered if a re-visit system could be initiated, by way of providing further reassurance and company for those who were known to be alone and requiring more social contact. The idea was accepted but underlying issues were further aired, including providing identity details to reassure householders, recognition that many elderly people would feel uneasy with visits from people they do not already know.

The new chairman advised that commitment could evolve towards a task that the group might find beyond their capabilities. It was decided also that other sectors of the community might care to become involved in regular visits, with possibly some transition students at Pobalscoil na Tríonóide being encouraged to participate. All told, it was felt that increased liaison between Care and Repair and the Community Alert groups could be beneficial.

Community alert means alert community

A pivotal point was made by Mossy Lynch, co-founder of the Community Alert movement in Ireland and former chairman of the Youghal branch. He said ‘community alert’ meant more than a group or committee being alert, “but,” he asked, “is the community alert to the needs of the people within it –their neighbours.”

Mr Beecher, who had assisted in the installation of the monitored alarms, remarked on how delighted the recipients were, often regarding the reassuring devise as akin to having company in the house. He further reflected that the satisfaction was mutual, his point echoed by others, who agreed that chatting to the more senior members of the community was usually both educational and entertaining. The issue will be revisited at November’s meeting, which will be held in the Red Store at 11 am. Guest speakers may attend and if so details will be announced in due course.

Note: Application forms  for personally monitored and fire alarms are available on-going through committee members, Community Garda Peter Queally and at Youghal garda station (024-92200).

People across the region are reminded that the week September 20th to 27th is national Garda Supporting Safety Week. Youghal Garda Ronan Swann says road safety will be one area on which the local force will be focusing their energies for the duration. “There will be extra checkpoints and we will be concentrating on all aspects of driving and safety, including, speed, alcohol, drugs, using seat belts and mobile phones, tax, insurance, etc.,” he explains.

Accidents

According to the garda, “statistics show that half of all fatal accidents occur between 4 pm on Friday and 6 am on Monday.” Tiredness is considered a contributory factor in many cases, with people working harder and longer to make ends meet in the present economic climate. Garda Swann says “fatigue is almost as lethal as intoxication,” and advises weary drivers to slow down and also to avail of lay-byes for a fast nap in the course of their journeys.  Getting there late is better than not getting there at all is the message.

Burglaries

The garda also advises that October and November are the prime months for burglaries. He observes that employing “two or more security features greatly reduce the chances of being burgled.” He suggests that homeowners consider dogs, alarms, sensory lights and securing windows and doors as viable options, whether rural or urban dwellers. Garda Swann further advises to conceal jewellery, cash, cameras, laptops and any valuable belongings from the prying eyes of would-be intruders.  “Gold prices are very high at the moment,” he says, “and there are easy outlets to accept gold items. Pawn shops also sometimes accept goods on face value.”

School care

The garda reiterates his plea that motorists exercise “extreme care” in the vicinity of Gaelscoil Choráin and Bunscoil Mhuire during drop off and collection times. As regards parking, he suggested the town hall or the vicinity of the Devonshire Hotel for the former premises, while also asking drivers not to block the entrance to the garda station when visiting Bunscoil Choráin. “A few minutes can make a huge difference if we get an emergency call,” he explains.

Community Alert

Garda Swam informs installation of socially monitored alarms will commence shortly in the town, while application forms for further alarms are available from the garda station or through members of the Community Alert group. The next Community Alert meeting –the AGM in fact- will be held in Cumann na Daoine at 7.45 pm on Wednesday October 5th and, as always, the public are invited to attend.

This year’s Community Alert AGM will be held in the Cumann na Daoine premises, Catherine Street, Youghal, on Wednesday October 5th at 7.45 pm. All are welcome.

GARDAI CONCERNED OVER SCHOOL RUN CONGESTION  – By Christy Parker  

YOUGHAL GARDAI want parents and other drivers to park carefully when dropping off and collecting children at Gaelscoil Choráin and to be extra mindful of the requirements of residents and other drivers in the area. Community Garda Peter Queally says there have been “a number of complaints” arising from congestion on the street since the school re-opened, especially in the mornings. We can see both sides of the problem and we realise the difficulties,” says the garda. “We will be talking to the school and maybe the school could liaise with parents. It’s a geographical thing and it’s further complicated with other parents accessing Bunscoil through Strand Street”

Crimes

Meanwhile entry into derelict buildings is deemed trespassing, breaking and entry and/or burglary and perpetrators will be pursued as such, according to the garda.  Garda Queally was speaking after a man was arrested on suspicion of just such an infringement. “Sometimes these incidents also lead to criminal damage,” he proceeds, “People need to be aware that we follow up reports of such incidences and indeed we put a lot of time into investigating them.”

Garda Queally expresses concern at the number of derelict sites in the Youghal area. “As well as being eyesores, they present an ongoing problem for us,” he says.” We would be concerned that a they could be prone to someone setting light to wooden structures, which could cause immense damage to neighbouring properties as well. We’d ask owners to secure their premises.”

Garda Queally also referred to the increasingly common occurrence of ‘drive-off’ theft from petrol stations. “It’s not the cleverest of crimes,” he advised. “Almost every garage in the county has CCTV now and we practically always have a successful investigation as a result.”

Elsewhere on the crime front, the garda warns householders to be on the alert for bogus callers. Last week two foreign nationals were arrested having called to houses on false pretences of collecting for charity.  “They showed ID but not permits for collecting money,” says the garda. One of the me was subsequently repatriated to Poland on foot of a EU arrest warrant while the other was sent to Monaghan where he was being sought by gardai.

Alarms

The Waterford native referred also to community matters and had good news for those awaiting socially monitored alarms. “After several months delay, the latest applications have been sanctioned and we have received funding to buy and install about 30 alarms.” He said. “We expect the installers from Wexford to start work in a couple of weeks. It’s been a long wait because the rules changed and our hands were tied.”

Garda Queally said forms for the next round of applications were now available from the garda. That process would take several months also be he added that for people urgently requiring the appliances, the option remained to purchase them privately, at a cost of about €250. The gardai would provide information on how this could be done.

GARDAI IN YOUGHAL are poised to “come down heavily” on so called ‘boy racers’- the June meeting of The Youghal and District Community Alert group heard. Community Garda Peter Queally made the observation while elaborating on the presence in town of a traffic corp. section. “They are here for the summer and are monitoring the situation regarding by racers,” he said. “They have the noise level detectors.” The garda said Garda headquarters in Fermoy were also very aware of the situation in Claycastle car park and “is keen to target the issue.” He added that some court appearances were imminent and more were likely. Drivers under 18 would be subject to the Juvenile Liaison System.

The meeting began with reference to the Youghal Concerned Citizens Group which was meeting simultaneously in the Red Store. Mr Beecher noted that that growingly successful group would heretofore be meeting on twice monthly on Thursdays and urged people to attend.

Crime stats

Garda Queally then delivered the statistics on reported crime since the previous month’s meeting. There had been three burglaries, for two of which a man had been arrested. A file was being prepared for the DPP. The third burglary occurred on Thursday May 26th between 10 pm and 1.30 am Friday in a house on the Quarry Road. Jewellery had been taken and gardai were keen for information, on (024) 92200.

Nine incidents of criminal damage had been recorded. These included another infringement, on May 30th, at Perks, where several such incidents had occurred recently. The culprits had been attempting a break-in but had fled empty handed.

There was one incident of drink-driving, on June 2nd. Drug detections involved four cases of possession plus two with intent to supply. There were only three recorded public order offences, despite two bank holidays.

Two robberies had occurred, including an incident where three men forced the manager of the Red Store to unlock the premises at knifepoint before escaping with a four-figure figure sum of money. That crime remains under investigation and anyone with information is again invited tome forward, anonymously if preferred. The second robbery –against a person- occurred in the front strand and an arrest had been made, with a court appearance likely to follow. There as one shop theft, at Lidl on May 4th.

Garda Queally said there had also been one alleged rape reported. He did not divulge details or any further information on the matter other than to say that a man had been arrested and questioned and that a file was being prepared for the DPP. He understood that such an alleged incident could cause particular unrest in the community but reassured that there was no cause for alarm.

In general the reported crime overview was thus:

Burglaries (3): BallyGlavin  (May 14th); Clifton terrace (May 15th); QuarryRoad (May 26th).

Criminal Damage (9): @ North Main Street (May 5th); Blackwater Heights (2) –May 9th and May 23rd); Cliftonville (May 15th); Yew Wood (May 21st;); O’Brien’s Place (May 29th); Spa Hill (May 29th); Perks (May 30th); Burgess Cross May 10th ).

Drink-Driving (1): detected @ Greencloyne.

Drugs –possession (4): Kenny’s Lane (May 6th); Chestinut Drive (May 12th); Killeagh Road (May 18th); Green Park (May 23rd).

Drugs –intent to supply (2): The Rise (May 6th): Ard Na Mara (May 18th).

Public Order (3): Blackwater Heights (May 23rd); Lighthouse Hill (May 30th); The Mall (June 3rd).

Robbery (2):  Red Store (May 16th); Front Strand (May 30th).

Theft from Shop (1): Lidl (May 4th).

Conference reflection

There was some discussion on the recent conferences night, hosted by Muintir na Tire, at Cuman na Daoine and which dealt with elderly abuse and home insulation. Mr Beecher said the occasion had been a considerable success and that another such event would likely occur in September or October. He said the increasing evidence of elderly abuse –whether physical, sexual, finance, psychological, emotional or discriminatory- was very alarming. “Their rights are being provoked,” he stated. Garda Queally said he had received a call on a case of suspected elder abuse within a fortnight of the meeting.  The chairman also noted that legally, an elderly person can refuse to enter a nursing home, adding that he recognised that very many nursing homes provided excellent care.

Regarding the Warm Home Scheme, the chairman said it was eye-opening to discover that there were grant schemes available of which many people were aware. It emerged from the floor, through Cllr Michelle Hennessy, that insulation grants were available in some instances for people on fuel allowance and renting privately, regardless of age.

Garda Queally was asked whether gardai can issue fines for dog litter. He replied that it was a matter for the litter warden. Michael Beecher said the issue had largely been resolved in Dun Chorainn with the assistance of the town hall, signage and information leaflets that outlined the serious health risks, particularly to children. He said a lot of loose dogs from outside an area exacerbate the problem. Garda Queally said A Mr. Dave Scully of Killeagh was the dog warden for the area on (024) 95106.

Drinking and worms

A lady from the floor recalled two unsavoury incidents at the front strand. First, she witnessed a dog ‘leaving his message’ in the water adjacent to some children. Then she noted a group of girls, one of whom was in charge of baby in a pram, boisterous and drinking on the promenade. The bottles were left, broken, in their wake. The garda said it was illegal to drink in public and that gardai would respond appropriately if called.  Mr. Beecher said he would like to see dogs banned form the beach entirely on health grounds. “The worm in dog dirt live for years!” he explained aid. As things stand, dogs on the beach must be on a leash between the hours of 11 am to 7 pm?? through June to the end of August.  Another voice from the floor said he saw a small child pick up “hard” dog litter on afternoon! “He could have taken a bite out of it!” he warned, to a collective shudder. Mr Beecher said covert CCTV was due in town to help counteract the scourge.

Never wasting time

It was also observed from the floor that some of the public knew nothing about community alert, some knew but didn’t want to be involved, others felt it was pointless reporting issues to the gardai, while yet more were simply afraid to do so for fear of reprisals.  The speakers stressed that the community must always be alert to potential injustice or criminality in its midst and trust the gardai to respond to such threats when they become manifest. He urged that people not merely read or inquire about Community Alert meetings but also to attend some meetings. He added that he had recently alerted gardai to an incident in the strand arena, the response had been instantaneous and the culprit subsequently arrested.  Garda Queally availed of the diversion to reassure that “no matter how trivial a suspicion may appear, it is best reported and would never be regarded of trivial concern by gardai.

It was recorded that there are concerns amongst residents in South Abbey regarding some anti-social behaviour by some members leaving Nagle House the youth centre. It was relayed that a very small group of about three were the main players and efforts were being made to curtail it.

Flag Day:

It was noted that weekend 9/10th of July was available and it was agreed that it was ideal for this year’s collection.  A summer break will ensue meanwhile and the next Community Alert meeting will take place on Tuesday September 6th.

A new service that assists the elderly with minor maintenance jobs in and around the house has been established in Youghal. Care and Repair is accessible to those over 65 and provides voluntary assistance with such tasks as changing bulbs and fuses, hanging curtains, minor painting and decorating, lawn mowing, tacking carpets or installing home security devices.

Youghal Care and Repair evolved from the monthly Community Alert meetings, following a suggestion by regular attender Pat Carey. The idea was pursued, assisted by Cumman na Daoine and in particular staff member Stacy Quinlivan and Ann Marie McCarthy. Further help and support was provided by Age Action Ireland which, in partnership with Irish Life, has a programme committed to ‘creating new services that help other people to acquire independence fulfilling lives for as long as they wish in their own homes.’

The Youghal service is now fully established and held its inaugural monthly committee meeting last week. Desmond Davis, a Wicklow man resident in Youghal for three years, is its first chairman, working alongside PRO and community garda, Peter Queally.

Desmond, a former farmer (he once worked the farm that was later cultivated by Biddy and Miley in the Glenroe series) and now a Methodist minister, speaks with quiet pride and confidence of the new resource. “We presently have a core group of about 15 volunteers,” he explains. They are aged roughly from 20’s to 60’s and include two females. Some are professional tradespeople and others, like me, are just general handymen but it’s fair to say we have a wide range of abilities. All our volunteers are garda vetted,” he adds.

Short wait

Over 65’s who seek to avail of the service are asked to contact Cumman na Daoine with details of the task required. The group will select two volunteers to visit the client, matching abilities as close as possible to the job at hand. “Waiting time should not be more than a couple of days and ideally he jobs we undertake should take about two to three hours to complete,” says Desmond. While the manpower comes free of charge the onus is on the householder to provide the appropriate materials.

The chairman is keen to stress that the service is confined to minor maintenance. “We don’t attempt anything like electrical or plumbing jobs and certainly will not take work from tradespeople,” he explains.  “Also, we don’t climb ladders or undertake anything else with a personal safety risk. Computer and television repairs would also be outside our remit. ”

Thus far the group has answered about a dozen calls amidst “much appreciation,” says Desmond. A gradual growth in requests can be expected as the profile spreads. “It’s still very new in Youghal and a lot of people are probably unaware of the service,” Desmond surmises. “In that sense we are not just eager for more people to call us but would also welcome new volunteers.”

Sociable

In a world where age and alienation are too often associates the benefits can extend beyond just painting a skirting board. “Because we work in pairs, one volunteer might spend more time just chatting over tea with the householder. Observes the chairman. “So the social benefits cannot be underestimated. In fact the overall benefits are two-way, with volunteers acquiring great satisfaction as well.”

Youghal Care and Repair Service is available through Cumann na Daoine on 024-91900 (Mon-Fri, 9.30 am-5.00 pm)

Arrest imminent in car burning attempt

Youghal gardai now hope to interview an individual in regard to an attempt to burn out a car at the Estuary estate last Friday night. The news follows an request for public assistance by Community Garda Peter Queally.

Garda Queally described the incident as “very concerning” and had asked that anyone who had noticed anything suspicious in the vicinity of Raheen Road, the Spa and Magnier’s Hill, between 2 and 4 am, to contact gardai on (024) 92200. “If it had not been spotted, it could have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to other cars in close proximity, not to mention people and property,” observed the garda.

The gardai are also seeking help in solving another car related incident from the previous Sunday night (August 8th). Between 11.30 pm and 1.30 am, Garda Queally related, a silver Mitushibi Crew Cab suffered slashed tyres and graffiti at Blackwater Heights.

Drugs

Meanwhile search warrants and street searches by the local drugs squad last week had resulted in three arrests for possession. Gardai say there has been no major arrests in terms of dealers in recent months and continue to appeal for any information. Meanwhile Munster Area drugs services co-ordinator, Gordon Kingsley will address next September’s Community Alert meeting on the issue.

Shoppers harassment

The gardai are set to disperse ASBO’s (Anti-Social Behaviour Orders) in the coming days in lieu of a “worrying trend” in antisocial behaviour against shops and shoppers on the main street, Garda Queally has revealed. He says a group of individuals, generally aged 13 to 17, have been causing nuisance and intimidation in recent times. This has included verbal abuse, noise making and some criminal damage. “The most worrying aspect for us is the intimidation side of things and people have been reluctant to make formal complaints due to the large number of youths involved,” Garda Queally explains. “We can’t act without an official complaint but we can move on it in a different way,” he proceeds, before revealing that gardai are now considering issuing ASBO’s to those involved. “The parents of these kids could also help us out here,” he adds. Meanwhile, as the Chamber of Commerce issues advisory letters, witnesses to such behaviour are asked to contact gardai.

Socially monitored alarms

Garda Queally says there are now a new stock of application forms available for person socially monitored alarms. Over 40 have been installed in Youghal in recent months, through the Community Alert group. The group hopes to complete another tranche of 15 applications in line with government requirements in the coming weeks. The forms can be acquired at the garda station.

Finally the next community alert meeting is at the Walter Raleigh hotel on Tuesday September 7th.