Deputies claim drinking gangs are intimidating elderly

Older people in some areas are locking themselves into their homes and are afraid to go out in the evenings because of intimidating gangs drinking in public areas, a group of Independent deputies has claimed. The group, led by Finian McGrath, Dublin North Central, yesterday called for more community policing.

"I have spoken to women in my constituency who have been seen by these gangs during the day cleaning the stairwells in flats complexes and then these guys come back later that night to intimidate them after they've been drinking cans in the area.

"There has been some very recent violent attacks by gangs of young men on other young people. Some of the victims were beaten with sticks and bottles and required medical attention while others have been robbed."

Tony Gregory said parts of his Dublin Central constituency had become no-go areas. Large groups were congregating in public areas, where they remained drinking until the early hours.

"Along parts of the Royal Canal there is almost total control by these people. It's the same along the boardwalk on the river Tolka. When gardaí are called they will often go in, confiscate the drink and move them on. But they're back a short time later and start all over again."

Catherine Murphy TD, Kildare North, and Paddy McHugh TD, Galway East, said the summer antisocial behaviour was not confined to cities.

Ms Murphy said one park bench in Kilcock was like an "informal pub" it was used so often by drinkers. Mr McHugh said in his constituency some of those engaged in antisocial behaviour were driving around by day identifying the homes of vulnerable people to intimidate them that night.