From 2nd December, 2019, 32 Probationer Gardaí will be assigned to the Limerick Garda Division to assist in policing during the busy Christmas period. The Probationers will be stationed in Henry Street, Roxboro Road and Newcastle West until the 1st January 2020, inclusively. From 2nd January, 2020, 4 of these probationers will then be permanently allocated to Henry Street Garda Station.
Speaking at Henry Street Garda Station today, Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche said, "I am pleased to welcome the 32 Probationer Gardaí who have been temporarily assigned to assist in our Christmas management plan for 2019. The probationers will be deployed to assist our Gardaí at keys times that have been identified by the Garda Analysis Services. Our aim is to provide high viability policing to tackle thefts, drugs, public order incidents road traffic offences and to help the flow of traffic in the city.
"In particular, we will be using these resource to increase the capacity of our Roads Policing Units. We have had 12 lives lost on our roads this year, 12 too many. I hope that by increasing our checkpoints and our speed checks, we will not have to suffer any more loss of life.
"There will also be an emphasis on early morning checkpoints. If you feel like you may still be over the limit the next morning, don’t take the risk by getting behind the wheel. In general, traffic will increase in the city and I would ask that where possible, people avail of public transport. Most importantly, I would like to wish you all a very safe and happy Christmas.”
Safety Tips during Christmas:
- Be careful when withdrawing money from cash machines and financial institutions.
- Mind your belongings when in crowed areas. Use a handbag or shoulder bag that can be held securely.
- Don’t leave bags or valuables exposed inside a parked car.
- When visiting the city centre area, park your car in one of the controlled car parks and retain the parking ticket on your person.
- Always lock your car securely when leaving it unattended, even for brief period.
- Report any incident to Gardaí, immediately.
