27/03/2008

Justice Minister Visits Limerick

An upsurge of gangland violence is to be addressed by the Minister of Justice today during a visit to Limerick.

The Justice department has been besieged by calls from opposition parties to take action on the recent growth of gang violence in the city.

Minister Brian Lenihan’s pre-arranged visit has come at a crucial time for the city as violent incidents increase in intensity and rumours of a ferocious gangland feud abound.

On Tuesday night, a drive-by style attack in the Ita’s Street part of the city shock residents and garda alike. At least 15 shots were fired in the incident, which is reported to have involved an automatic weapon.

The Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea, said extra garda resources in the city had had some success in thwarting death or serious injury.

Fine Gael has called for the introduction of more stringent legislation to deal with those involved in gun crime.

Yesterday, Labour Spokesman Eamon Gilmore revealed figures showing that of 150 gun related murders in the past 10 years, only 24 successful convictions had been brought.

The Minister will be opening a new medical and educational unit at Limerick Prison and visit local Garda stations and the Southhill and Moyross areas that have been singled out for a multi million regeneration programme.

(DW)


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