Faster text alerts on the way

Text Alerts from the various schemes in the Naas Garda Division will be sent out directly by the gardai from 18 August, writes Brian Byrne.

This will replace the current system where suspicious activity is reported to the gardai, and then the alert is sent out by the holder of the scheme's phone once clearance is received.

It's part of the ongoing development of the schemes, announced by the Division's new Superintendent, Declan McCarthy, at a meeting for Text Alert committee members last evening.

Superintendent McCarthy also said he aims to have community policing 'up and running' under his leadership.

The meeting heard that burglaries in the district are up 34 percent, a crime made easier because of the motorway system.

"It is important we work together as a community in assisting the Gardai," says Sabina Reddy of the Kilcullen Garda District Text Alert Scheme. "Please encourage friends and family to join text alert. Forms can be got from Kilcullen Gardai, Kilcullen Credit Union and Calverstown grocery store."

She also says that the local committee are actively sorting Text Alert signs which will be erected shortly.