Gardaí are calling on parents to take responsibility for their kids in tackling anti-social behaviour in Kilkee.
Locals residents and businesses are expressing growing concern about issues surrounding alcohol misuse and litter in the town.
Clare FM’s Rebecca O’Sullivan reports…
Issues regarding anti-social behaviour in the coastal town first came to light at the onset of the lifting of the ban on intercounty travel.
An influx of visitors to Kilkee coupled with a continued ban on indoor service, is leading to problems with outdoor drinking, crowds gathering and a worsening in litter levels in the town.
Amid calls from listeners to Clare FM’s Morning Focus to address the garda presence in the town, local Sergeant John Maloney has confirmed that Garda overtime is being sanctioned for Kilkee to allow for more garda personnel at weekends.
However, Sergeant Moloney, insists that while anti-social issues are not solely linked to young people, that parents must take responsibility for their teen’s behaviour.
The Chair of Kilkee Chamber says issues associated with alcohol consumption are more visible this year due to the restrictions on indoor service.
Paul Williams, who is also the owner of William’s Hardware and Builder’s Providers, insists that on the whole, Kilkee is a family-oriented destination.
Paul believes that problems with anti-social behaviour are not specific to his town, but are universal.
The Kilkee businessman thinks it’s important to remember that the pandemic has brought a greater spotlight to existing issues.
