An Ennis publican says it’s time for business owners in the county town to reclaim their town centre.
It comes as concern has been raised about what’s been described as a spike in anti-social behaviour at the O’Connell Monument in The Height in recent weeks.
Now, there are calls for a joined up approach to tackling the issue.
Auctioneer Diarmuid McMahon of Sherry Fitzgerald McMahon, who is based right beside the O’Connell Monument in the Height, is one of many local traders who is concerned about the impact of anti-social behaviour in Ennis – as well as the impression of the town that tourists and visitors are taking away.
The incidents are said to be mainly involving alcohol and substance abuse by those suffering from addiction who have no fixed abode.
Clare’s Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Tríona O’Rourke says Gardaí are aware of the issue and are working constantly at doing what they can to address it.
The matter has been raised by a number of concerned Ennis residents with Cloughleigh Fianna Fáil Councillor Mark Nestor.
He says now is the time for a collaborative approach to ensure that these people receive the help they need and to stamp out the problem for good.
There have been suggestions from some quarters to install a railing at the O’Connell Monument, so that the steps where the anti-social behaviour is taking place are no longer accessible.
But Ennis publican Darragh McAllister doesn’t support that call.
He says it’s important to take action and take back the town centre once and for all.
