Text Alert AGM hears how to switch to Cairde app

Some of those attending the AGM.

The transition from text alerts to the Cairde app for community messaging was the main focus of last evening's AGM of the Kilcullen Garda District Text Alert group, writes Brian Byrne. A presentation by Inspector Gavin Dunphy outlined the features of the app and how to download it and register with a local community group.

The app was developed by Muintir na Tire, the organisation which initiated the original national Text Alert system. It is free to download and use in Kildare, being funded through Local Property Tax.

In addition to providing a way to notify information in a variety of pre-set themes to all members of a group, the Cairde system also gives users the opportunity to have nominated friends made aware of personal emergencies, such as a fall.

Once registered, members of a group can receive alerts on suspicious activities from An Garda, as well as other messages from within their group such as Missing Persons or Pets, local road traffic issues, community Clean-up Days and more. 

There's also the facility to fill in details of personal valuables on a Property Log, which can help with recovery if lost or stolen. Nominated friends can be set up on the My Cairde section — Inspector Dunphy recommended that at least two such friends should be available for emergency contact. He emphasised that Cairde doesn't replace the HSE Seniors Alert system, and also that requests for emergency services should still be made by dialling 999.

Among the advantages of the Cairde app over the older Text Alert is the facility to go beyond the 160-character limit, as well as being able to include photographs — lost pets, for example — and links to relevant external sources such as Garda report podcasts on local radio stations.

Inspector Dunphy noted that there had been a 3-year trial of the new system, and in Kildare there are now around 40 groups set up on it. He accepted that for some in an older age cohort there may be difficulties in switching to an app from the text system, but help will be made available to any individual who wants it. "That's why we have set no timeline for ceasing Text Alert. But areas which have not had Text Alert are signing up to Cairde because effectively it's the only show in town now. And they're delighted with it."

Earlier, Elaine Jackson of the Kilcullen Garda District Text Alert had taken the meeting through the AGM agenda. The same committee was re-appointed, comprising Aaron Cotter as chair, Elaine Jackson as Secretary, Martin Kelleher as Treasurer and committee members Mary Dillon, Fran Shortt and Jennifer Shortt.

Also in attendance were Cllrs Tracey O'Dwyer and Mark Leigh, and Community Garda Jon Brien.

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