Condemnation After Drogheda Shooting

A shooting in Drogheda in which a man was injured has sparked widespread condemnation from political representatives.

Up to eight shots were fired at a house in Hardmans Gardens on the afternoon of Thursday 25 April, in a built up and busy area.

A 36-year-old man who was injured in the attack remains in serious but stable condition after sustaining gunshot wounds to his shoulder and legs.

Labour Senator Ged Nash said the incident on a busy thoroughfare, across the road from a popular supermarket, has caused revulsion in the local community.

"I spoke to an eyewitness who told me the area was buzzing with children on their Easter holidays and locals going about their everyday business when several shots were discharged," he commented.

"My constant fear is that this ongoing criminal feud will take an innocent life. This madness needs to end. The under resourced local Gardai need to be adequately supported by government and those who are responsible for this cycle of violence must be brought to justice as a matter of extreme urgency."

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, Declan Breathnach, said the shooting demonstrates the level of depravity the thugs who carry out these acts will sink to.

He also told of how the incident took place in broad daylight in the vicinity of shops, schools and a church.

"Any number of innocent people could have been caught up in the attack. It is the ordinary citizens who are suffering at the hands of a minority," Deputy Breathnach added.

"This is the third feud related incident in a week and these thugs are terrorising communities with arson, knife and gun attacks. This feud has been ongoing for over a year now and along with a greater Garda presence I believe there should be harsher penalties for those convicted.

"The Fianna Fáil Bail (Amendment) Bill 2017 would oblige judges to refuse bail in serious offences where the court is satisfied is it necessary to prevent further offences being carried out. 

"I would like to see this legislation implemented without delay. It's high time these thugs realised they are not in the Wild West, they will not be pandered to and allowed to continue the reign of terror on innocent communities," concluded Deputy Breathnach.



(JG)