theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Garda and Defence Forces join in ‘super raid’ on Limerick drugs gang

A joint Garda and Defence Forces operation , involving more than 200 personnel , against a Limerick drugs gang has yielded evidence of the proceeds of crime invested in Ireland and abroad , including the United Arab Emirates .
Two cocaine presses were also seized , which gardaí said formed the main equipment being used by a group within the gang specialising in mixing pure cocaine with bulking agents before repackaging it for resale to other dealers .
A total of 67 searches were carried out during the so-called “ super raid ” from 6am on Wednesday in counties Limerick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Collopy drugs gang , which was previously involved in a feud with the McCarthy-Dundon gang .
Some 14 arrests were made during the operation and drugs , cash and documents related to assets were also discovered .
While two leading members of the Collopy gang are due for release from lengthy prison sentences in coming months , Garda sources also say the group ’ s ranks have been bolstered by a younger generation of criminals that has emerged since the end of the feud almost a decade ago .
Sources said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wider Munster area , mostly in supplying drugs and laundering the proceeds of crime .
The Garda operation involved 170 personnel from local Garda divisions backed by the Armed Support Unit , Emergency Response Unit , Criminal Assets Bureau ( CAB ) and the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau , among others .
Defence Forces personnel were also drafted in to bolster the search , at private homes , businesses and lands , with the Army helicopter observing from above and the Army ’ s bomb disposal team and search engineers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in cash including some sterling and UAE dirham as well as Irish punts .
A vehicle valued at €50,000 and jewellery and watches with a combined value of €100,000 were confiscated by CAB , along with designer clothing .
The deeds to a property in Dubai were also confiscated along with financial documents relating to bank accounts and property deals , with about €119,000 in two bank accounts frozen .
As well as the cocaine presses , €23,500 worth of cannabis , heroin and crack cocaine was seized .
Those arrested , 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between their 20s and 60s .
Three suspects were detained for suspected money laundering while one man was detained in relation to the seizure of €2,000 worth of crack cocaine and heroin .
Six suspects were arrested for drug possession while three people were detained on outstanding warrants .

The Garda operation involved 170 personnel from local Garda divisions backed by the Armed Support Unit, Emergency Response Unit, Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. Photograph: Garda Facebook
A joint Garda and Defence Forces operation, involving more than 200 personnel, against a Limerick drugs gang has yielded evidence of the proceeds of crime invested in Ireland and abroad, including the United Arab Emirates.
Two cocaine presses were also seized, which gardaí said formed the main equipment being used by a group within the gang specialising in mixing pure cocaine with bulking agents before repackaging it for resale to other dealers.
A total of 67 searches were carried out during the so-called “super raid” from 6am on Wednesday in counties Limerick, Clare and Tipperary as gardaí targeted the Collopy drugs gang, which was previously involved in a feud with the McCarthy-Dundon gang.
Some 14 arrests were made during the operation and drugs, cash and documents related to assets were also discovered.
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While two leading members of the Collopy gang are due for release from lengthy prison sentences in coming months, Garda sources also say the group’s ranks have been bolstered by a younger generation of criminals that has emerged since the end of the feud almost a decade ago.
Sources said the gang remained very active in Limerick and the wider Munster area, mostly in supplying drugs and laundering the proceeds of crime.
The Garda operation involved 170 personnel from local Garda divisions backed by the Armed Support Unit, Emergency Response Unit, Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, among others.
Army helicopter
Defence Forces personnel were also drafted in to bolster the search, at private homes, businesses and lands, with the Army helicopter observing from above and the Army’s bomb disposal team and search engineers also used.
Gardaí seized approximately €220,000 in cash including some sterling and UAE dirham as well as Irish punts. A vehicle valued at €50,000 and jewellery and watches with a combined value of €100,000 were confiscated by CAB, along with designer clothing.
The deeds to a property in Dubai were also confiscated along with financial documents relating to bank accounts and property deals, with about €119,000 in two bank accounts frozen. As well as the cocaine presses, €23,500 worth of cannabis, heroin and crack cocaine was seized.
Those arrested, 12 men and one woman, are aged between their 20s and 60s. Three suspects were detained for suspected money laundering while one man was detained in relation to the seizure of €2,000 worth of crack cocaine and heroin. Six suspects were arrested for drug possession while three people were detained on outstanding warrants.


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Less school and more play has benefits for children, study finds

Most primary level children are spending less than two hours a day doing school work but are spending more time playing outdoors than they did before the coronavirus crisis , a new study shows .
The Play and Learning in the Early Years ( PLEY ) survey , conducted by researchers at Mary Immaculate College , measures the impact the lockdown has had on children and their behaviour .
The findings show that a large majority of children ( 88 per cent ) aged between six and seven spent two hours or less on school work each day , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent more than two hours .
More than eight in 10 parents did some school work at home with their children every day , but the work was a source of conflict between parents and children in 55 per cent of cases .
The survey , which questioned 506 parents of children aged between one and 10 from May 21st to June 3rd , also found that 74 per cent of children were spending more time engaged in outdoor play than they were before schools were closed .
Some 78 per cent reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent more time reading than they did before the lockdown .
Over three-quarters of children ( 80 per cent ) watched educational TV such as RTÉ ’ s Home School Hub or TG4 ’ s Cúla4 ar Scoil at least once a week .
The survey also found that the majority of children understand the restrictions introduced to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus with many ( 34 per cent ) incorporating it into their play .
Report author and lecturer in the department of psychology at Mary Immaculate College Dr Suzanne @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been spending less time on school work at home than in school it isn ’ t necessarily something to be concerned about.
” She said it is “ difficult ” to compare the time spent on school work at home with one-to-one support from parents and that provided by teachers in classrooms .
“ Also much learning for young children occurs through play , so while there may be less time spent on traditional school work , there are still many other opportunities for children to learn at home .
“ Some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have adapted well to the change in circumstances and are thriving on more outdoor play and greater freedom from schedules.
” However , she said there is evidence some children and families are struggling and may need additional support when they return in September .
“ Some children will need additional supports , especially where inequalities already exist .
It is important to realise that where there is an impact it will not be the same for everyone .
”

The survey found that 74% of children were spending more time engaged in outdoor play than they were before schools closed. Photograph: Alexander Becher
Most primary level children are spending less than two hours a day doing school work but are spending more time playing outdoors than they did before the coronavirus crisis, a new study shows.
The Play and Learning in the Early Years (PLEY) survey, conducted by researchers at Mary Immaculate College, measures the impact the lockdown has had on children and their behaviour.
The findings show that a large majority of children (88 per cent) aged between six and seven spent two hours or less on school work each day, while 25 per cent of children aged 8-10 spent more than two hours.
More than eight in 10 parents did some school work at home with their children every day, but the work was a source of conflict between parents and children in 55 per cent of cases.
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Screen time
The survey, which questioned 506 parents of children aged between one and 10 from May 21st to June 3rd, also found that 74 per cent of children were spending more time engaged in outdoor play than they were before schools were closed.
Some 78 per cent reported increased screen time while nearly a third spent more time reading than they did before the lockdown.
Over three-quarters of children (80 per cent) watched educational TV such as RTÉ's Home School Hub or TG4's Cúla4 ar Scoil at least once a week.
The survey also found that the majority of children understand the restrictions introduced to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus with many (34 per cent) incorporating it into their play.
Teachers vs parents
Report author and lecturer in the department of psychology at Mary Immaculate College Dr Suzanne Egan said: "While children have been spending less time on school work at home than in school it isn't necessarily something to be concerned about."
She said it is “difficult” to compare the time spent on school work at home with one-to-one support from parents and that provided by teachers in classrooms.
“Also much learning for young children occurs through play, so while there may be less time spent on traditional school work, there are still many other opportunities for children to learn at home.
“Some of responses provided by parents suggest their children have adapted well to the change in circumstances and are thriving on more outdoor play and greater freedom from schedules.”
However, she said there is evidence some children and families are struggling and may need additional support when they return in September.
“Some children will need additional supports, especially where inequalities already exist. It is important to realise that where there is an impact it will not be the same for everyone.”


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Pub time slots of 105 minutes to be allowed under final reopening guidelines

Pubs intending to open from the end of the month can provide a time slot of an hour and three quarters for customers under final guidelines for the industry .
Businesses will also be allowed to implement a one-metre physical distancing guideline in “ permitted controlled environments.
” Following pressure from industry representatives , the seating time in pubs has changed from 90 minutes to 105 minutes with an additional 15 minutes between bookings , which is two hours in total .
“ The 15 minutes has been added to allow for adequate cleaning and to ensure customers leave and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state .
Businesses will now also be required to collect the contact information of just the “ party lead ” .
Previously , the original HPSC guidance stated that this should be collected for the full group .
The guidance says that where at all practical workers in pubs should provide services to only one gathering and should not move between different function rooms .
It says toilets should not be used simultaneously by multiple gatherings .
Pubs will also be asked to make regular announcements to remind customers to follow social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be asked to place plexiglass barriers at tills and counters .
Customers will also have to be seated at a table except when using the toilet , paying and departing .
Pubs will be required to serve a “ substantial meal ” for which it would be reasonable to charge not less than €9 .
Physical distancing of at least one metre should be maintained between people seated at tables .
Pre booking will be encouraged as much as possible and a text may be sent to remind the customer to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two metres and a minimum of one metre should be maintained between employees .
Where two metres is not possible “ all other measures to protect employees should be in place , ” the guidance says .
Previously Dr Tony Holohan , the State ’ s chief medical officer , had said pubs operating as restaurants would not mean several people meeting up “ for a few pints and having a packet of peanuts ” .
Pubs reopening as restaurants would not need a restaurant licence to do so , the Government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kelly said the guidelines are “ intended to provide clarity to businesses so that they can reopen safely on June 29th .
”

Following pressure from industry representatives, the seating time in pubs has changed. Photograph: iStock
Pubs intending to open from the end of the month can provide a time slot of an hour and three quarters for customers under final guidelines for the industry.
Businesses will also be allowed to implement a one-metre physical distancing guideline in “permitted controlled environments.”
Following pressure from industry representatives, the seating time in pubs has changed from 90 minutes to 105 minutes with an additional 15 minutes between bookings, which is two hours in total.
“The 15 minutes has been added to allow for adequate cleaning and to ensure customers leave and enter without mixing,” the guidelines state.
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Businesses will now also be required to collect the contact information of just the “party lead”.
Previously, the original HPSC guidance stated that this should be collected for the full group.
The guidance says that where at all practical workers in pubs should provide services to only one gathering and should not move between different function rooms.
It says toilets should not be used simultaneously by multiple gatherings. Pubs will also be asked to make regular announcements to remind customers to follow social distancing advice and wash their hands regularly and will be asked to place plexiglass barriers at tills and counters.
Customers will also have to be seated at a table except when using the toilet, paying and departing.
Pubs will be required to serve a “substantial meal” for which it would be reasonable to charge not less than €9. Physical distancing of at least one metre should be maintained between people seated at tables.
Pre booking will be encouraged as much as possible and a text may be sent to remind the customer to stay away if unwell.
A distance of two metres and a minimum of one metre should be maintained between employees. Where two metres is not possible “all other measures to protect employees should be in place,” the guidance says.
Previously Dr Tony Holohan, the State’s chief medical officer, had said pubs operating as restaurants would not mean several people meeting up “for a few pints and having a packet of peanuts”.
Pubs reopening as restaurants would not need a restaurant licence to do so, the Government has said.
Fáilte Ireland chief executive Paul Kelly said the guidelines are “intended to provide clarity to businesses so that they can reopen safely on June 29th.”


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Eight children from Greek refugee camp resettled in Ireland

Eight children from a refugee camp in Greece arrived in Dublin on Wednesday as part of a resettlement programme , the Department of Children and Youth Affairs has announced .
The children , who have been separated from their families , were brought to the country under the International Refugee Protection Programme , which is managed by the Department of Justice and Equality .
They will now go into the care of Tusla , the child and family agency .
Minister for Children and Youth Affairs , Dr Katherine Zappone , welcomed the young people ’ s arrival , following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I am delighted that at last we can welcome these children , whose arrival here was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic , ” Minister Zappone said .
“ I am very relieved that the young people tested negative for Covid-19 and were able to travel today.
” Preparation for the transfer of the young people began in September 2019 , when Tusla led a mission to Athens and the eight children were assessed , screened and approved for resettlement .
Arrangements for the children were being processed and their arrival had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , all refugee transport and resettlement programmes were temporarily suspended in mid-March because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the transfer could not be completed .
Minister Zappone commended Tusla for the detailed planning to ensure the safe transfer of the young people : “ I know Tusla has developed a detailed and comprehensive plan to care for these young people in their new home , where they will quarantine .
They will be received into Tusla care and will have a chance to adjust to the very different circumstances in which they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
“ I want to thank Tusla for the additional efforts made to ensure all public health advice is adhered to and that the young people , and those caring for them , are protected as they settle into their new home .
”

Minister for Children Katherine Zappone said she was ‘very relieved that the young people tested negative for Covid-19 and were able to travel’. File photograph: Damien Eagers/The Irish Times
Eight children from a refugee camp in Greece arrived in Dublin on Wednesday as part of a resettlement programme, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs has announced.
The children, who have been separated from their families, were brought to the country under the International Refugee Protection Programme, which is managed by the Department of Justice and Equality.
They will now go into the care of Tusla, the child and family agency.
Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, welcomed the young people's arrival, following delays relating to the coronavirus pandemic.
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“I am delighted that at last we can welcome these children, whose arrival here was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” Minister Zappone said. “I am very relieved that the young people tested negative for Covid-19 and were able to travel today.”
Preparation for the transfer of the young people began in September 2019, when Tusla led a mission to Athens and the eight children were assessed, screened and approved for resettlement.
Arrangements for the children were being processed and their arrival had been expected in late March.
However, all refugee transport and resettlement programmes were temporarily suspended in mid-March because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the transfer could not be completed.
Minister Zappone commended Tusla for the detailed planning to ensure the safe transfer of the young people:
“I know Tusla has developed a detailed and comprehensive plan to care for these young people in their new home, where they will quarantine. They will be received into Tusla care and will have a chance to adjust to the very different circumstances in which they will now be living,” Minister Zappone added.
“I want to thank Tusla for the additional efforts made to ensure all public health advice is adhered to and that the young people, and those caring for them, are protected as they settle into their new home.”


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Gardaí have seized 22 dogs from three addresses in Cork

Gardaí have seized a number of dogs during a search operation at separate locations in Cork on Wednesday .
The @ @ @ @ @ were conducted by the Cork City crime unit with assistance from the district detective unit @ @ @ @ @ total of 22 dogs were seized , some for animal welfare concerns .
All of @ @ @ @ @ the care of the Cork Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ( CSPCA @ @ @ @ @ for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ( ISPCA ) .
A spokesman said pets @ @ @ @ @ can be easily identified if found , and encouraged owners to place contact details on @ @ @ @ @ .
Additional crime prevention measures should be considered in the home , such as CCTV @ @ @ @ @ of animal is housed .

A total of 22 dogs were seized, some for animal welfare concerns.
Gardaí have seized a number of dogs during a search operation at separate locations in Cork on Wednesday.
The searches at Gurranabraher and Knocknaheeny were conducted by the Cork City crime unit with assistance from the district detective unit at three addresses. A total of 22 dogs were seized, some for animal welfare concerns.
All of the dogs are currently in the care of the Cork Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (CSPCA) and the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA).
Gardaí said investigations are ongoing.
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A spokesman said pets should be microchipped so they can be easily identified if found, and encouraged owners to place contact details on the animal’s collar.
Additional crime prevention measures should be considered in the home, such as CCTV, where a high-value breed of animal is housed.


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Laws concerning membership of illegal organisations set to lapse

A failure to renew two laws aimed at membership of illegal organisations and involvement in organised crime is unlikely to affect any cases pending before the Special Criminal Court , according to sources .
Provisions of the Offences Against the State ( Amendment ) Act 1998 , and the Criminal Justice ( Amendment ) Act 2009 , which have to be renewed annually if they are to remain in force , are due to lapse on June 29th next .
The fact that a new Seanad has not been fully appointed since the recent general election means that the laws @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of the month .
It that happens they would lapse until a full , new Seanad is appointed and the Oireachtas can renew the two provisions .
However , legal and courts sources said they did not think there were any cases pending before the Special Criminal Court , where the particular offences are tried , that involved the provisions that are in danger of lapsing .
No case currently being heard before the non-jury court would be affected by a failure to renew the offences prior to the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main offence affected under the 1998 Act , which was introduced in the wake of the bombing of Omagh that year , concerns inferences that may be drawn by the court from an accused ’ s silence when questioned about membership of an unlawful organisation .
In relation to the 2009 Act , the relevent sections have the effect of making “ scheduled offences ” , or offences heard in the Special Criminal Court , crimes contained in the Criminal Justice Act 2006 .
These have to do with directing the activities of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contributing to certain activities of a criminal organisation , and committing an offence for a criminal organisation .
Labour Senator Ivana Bacik is one of a number of Senators who have taken High Court proceedings seeking a declaration that it is constitutional for the Seanad to sit and pass legislation without the 11 nominees selected by the Taoiseach which have remained unfilled since the election .
She said the most important of the provisions that may lapse is probably the one to do with the drawing of an inference from an suspect ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A lawyer who formerly practiced before the Special Criminal Court , she said that if the affected laws did lapse , legal representatives of persons brought before the court in the future might , in certain circumstances , seek to use that fact as part of their arguments in favour of their clients .
It is expected that the Special Criminal Court will operate until the end of July , then break for August , but possibly return in September , earlier than would normally be the case .
The early return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deal with the backlog created by the coronavirus pandemic .

The main offence affected under the 1998 Act, which was introduced in the wake of the bombing of Omagh that year, concerns inferences that may be drawn by the court from an accused’s silence when questioned about membership of an unlawful organisation. Photograph: Paul McErlane/PA
A failure to renew two laws aimed at membership of illegal organisations and involvement in organised crime is unlikely to affect any cases pending before the Special Criminal Court, according to sources.
Provisions of the Offences Against the State (Amendment) Act 1998, and the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009, which have to be renewed annually if they are to remain in force, are due to lapse on June 29th next.
The fact that a new Seanad has not been fully appointed since the recent general election means that the laws may not be renewed prior to the end of the month. It that happens they would lapse until a full, new Seanad is appointed and the Oireachtas can renew the two provisions.
However, legal and courts sources said they did not think there were any cases pending before the Special Criminal Court, where the particular offences are tried, that involved the provisions that are in danger of lapsing.
READ MORE
No case currently being heard before the non-jury court would be affected by a failure to renew the offences prior to the end of the month, the sources added.
Omagh bombing
The main offence affected under the 1998 Act, which was introduced in the wake of the bombing of Omagh that year, concerns inferences that may be drawn by the court from an accused’s silence when questioned about membership of an unlawful organisation.
In relation to the 2009 Act, the relevent sections have the effect of making “scheduled offences”, or offences heard in the Special Criminal Court, crimes contained in the Criminal Justice Act 2006.
These have to do with directing the activities of a criminal organisation, participating in or contributing to certain activities of a criminal organisation, and committing an offence for a criminal organisation.
Court proceedings
Labour Senator Ivana Bacik is one of a number of Senators who have taken High Court proceedings seeking a declaration that it is constitutional for the Seanad to sit and pass legislation without the 11 nominees selected by the Taoiseach which have remained unfilled since the election.
She said the most important of the provisions that may lapse is probably the one to do with the drawing of an inference from an suspect’s decision not to respond to questioning.
A lawyer who formerly practiced before the Special Criminal Court, she said that if the affected laws did lapse, legal representatives of persons brought before the court in the future might, in certain circumstances, seek to use that fact as part of their arguments in favour of their clients.
It is expected that the Special Criminal Court will operate until the end of July, then break for August, but possibly return in September, earlier than would normally be the case. The early return is part of the courts’ efforts to deal with the backlog created by the coronavirus pandemic.


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Gaisce award calls for young asylum seekers and refugees to get involved

The national Gaisce award has called on young asylum seekers and refugees to sign up to the president ’ s youth development programme so they can build the confidence to “ find their voice and challenge discrimination around race ” .
The Gaisce president ’ s award , which has been in operation since 1985 , last year launched the Wavelength integration system to help 18-25 year olds living in direct provision and with refugee status get involved with the programme .
To mark Refugee Week 2020 , Gaisce is calling on young people and youth groups to get involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support recently arrived immigrants to Ireland .
The goal is to help young people dealing with the stress of the international protection system build their confidence , says Gaisce chief executive Yvonne McKenna .
“ Gaisce is designed to help young people become more of themselves and that ’ s why it ’ s particularly important at the moment to help young people find their voice and challenge discrimination around race , ” said Ms McKenna .
“ The purpose is also integration and inclusion and to bring people who are from different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young people .
You don ’ t tell young people what they should be , you give them the opportunity to explore their own passions.
” Through funding from the Coca-Cola foundation , the Wavelength programme helps young immigrants overcome financial barriers to take part in the national self-development programme , said McKenna .
Nearly 60 people have taken part in the scheme since last year with 13 receiving the Gaisce award for their involvement .
“ With World Refugee day and the week that ’ s in it we wanted to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there .
The reality for people living in direct provision is they can become very preoccupied with other things .
We want to make sure it ’ s accessible to everyone.
” Honest Ndlovu signed up for the Gaisce bronze award after hearing about Wavelength through Longford youth service .
The 23-year-old from Zimbabwe , who has been in direct provision since 2018 , said he was attracted to the programme because he wanted to meet more Irish people .
In order to achieve the bronze award , Mr Ndlovu must undertake activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ develop a personal skill .
He originally planned to volunteer in Longford town but after lockdown came into effect he started distributing soap , food packages and snacks to other residents at the centre where he lives .
“ The coronavirus forced me to be more creative around Gaisce and find another way of helping out .
I think it was quite beneficial of me to work with people in direct provision ; when you help someone you feel better about yourself .
You ’ re also able to interact with different people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultures better.
” Mr Ndlovu set himself the challenge of improving his reading for his personal skill by focusing on books around economics and real estate and is running , cycling and playing basketball for the sports element of the award .
“ I think sport is good for the mind and I really enjoy cycling now .
That fresh breeze in your face outside direct provision , it ’ s uplifting .
And it ’ s always nice to go cycling with other people.
” Taking part in Gaisce through Wavelength has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Longford .
“ Interacting with others may not seem like a big thing but it ’ s really helped me .
You get to discover other people ’ s beliefs and opinions .
It also gives me a sense of being there for other people and helping when I can .
At the end of the day , doing Gaisce is something I feel will bring me closer to people here in Ireland .
”

The national Gaisce award has called on young asylum seekers and refugees to sign up to the president’s youth development programme so they can build the confidence to “find their voice and challenge discrimination around race”.
The Gaisce president’s award, which has been in operation since 1985, last year launched the Wavelength integration system to help 18-25 year olds living in direct provision and with refugee status get involved with the programme.
To mark Refugee Week 2020, Gaisce is calling on young people and youth groups to get involved in this new project which seeks to support recently arrived immigrants to Ireland. The goal is to help young people dealing with the stress of the international protection system build their confidence, says Gaisce chief executive Yvonne McKenna.
“Gaisce is designed to help young people become more of themselves and that’s why it’s particularly important at the moment to help young people find their voice and challenge discrimination around race,” said Ms McKenna.
READ MORE
“The purpose is also integration and inclusion and to bring people who are from different environments together and build that community of young people. You don’t tell young people what they should be, you give them the opportunity to explore their own passions.”
Through funding from the Coca-Cola foundation, the Wavelength programme helps young immigrants overcome financial barriers to take part in the national self-development programme, said McKenna. Nearly 60 people have taken part in the scheme since last year with 13 receiving the Gaisce award for their involvement.
“With World Refugee day and the week that’s in it we wanted to get the word out that this opportunity is there. The reality for people living in direct provision is they can become very preoccupied with other things. We want to make sure it’s accessible to everyone.”
Honest Ndlovu signed up for the Gaisce bronze award after hearing about Wavelength through Longford youth service. The 23-year-old from Zimbabwe, who has been in direct provision since 2018, said he was attracted to the programme because he wanted to meet more Irish people.
In order to achieve the bronze award, Mr Ndlovu must undertake activities in community involvement, physical recreation and develop a personal skill. He originally planned to volunteer in Longford town but after lockdown came into effect he started distributing soap, food packages and snacks to other residents at the centre where he lives.
“The coronavirus forced me to be more creative around Gaisce and find another way of helping out. I think it was quite beneficial of me to work with people in direct provision; when you help someone you feel better about yourself. You’re also able to interact with different people from around the world and understand their cultures better.”
Mr Ndlovu set himself the challenge of improving his reading for his personal skill by focusing on books around economics and real estate and is running, cycling and playing basketball for the sports element of the award.
“I think sport is good for the mind and I really enjoy cycling now. That fresh breeze in your face outside direct provision, it’s uplifting. And it’s always nice to go cycling with other people.”
Taking part in Gaisce through Wavelength has helped Mr Ndlovu settle into life in Longford.
“Interacting with others may not seem like a big thing but it’s really helped me. You get to discover other people’s beliefs and opinions. It also gives me a sense of being there for other people and helping when I can. At the end of the day, doing Gaisce is something I feel will bring me closer to people here in Ireland.”


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--‘Worrying increase’ in mental health referrals during pandemic

Irish psychiatrists say there has been a “ worrying increase ” in mental health referrals and urgent presentations to specialist services during the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown period .
Research carried out by the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland warned of the emergence of a “ new mental health curve that will need flattening ” and said nearly half of its members had noticed a rise in patients experiencing a relapse of mental illness .
More than two thirds of the 200 consultant psychiatrists who took part in the survey reported a lull in mental health services after lockdown was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in service needs between mid-April and mid-May .
When compared to numbers before lockdown , one in three consultant psychiatrists saw an increase in the number of emergency referrals while half of those surveyed said the number of patients experiencing a relapse in mental illness had increased .
Nearly 60 per cent of psychiatrists felt the demand for inpatient beds had increased in the past month when compared to the first month of lockdown while about 80 per cent felt that social isolation and reduced access to face-to-face secondary mental health supports was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded a “ swell ” in people presenting because of self-harm and suicidal ideation , new onset depression and general anxiety .
Reduced access to local counselling supports and GPs , abuse and neglect in the home and an increased reliance on drugs and alcohol are also believed to have contributed to the rise in emergency presentations , according to the survey .
School closures were also flagged as a significant stress in people ’ s lives .
More than two thirds of psychiatrists who participated in the IT section of the study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” to conduct their duties online , adding that poor wifi signal often made consultations a challenge .
While teams have adapted to online and video-link services and new referral pathways , these new adaptations have left “ clear staffing deficits exposed ” , says the report .
Dr William Flannery , president of the College of Psychiatrists , noted that while more data was needed to predict an increase in presentations , “ pressure on the mental health services is clearly arising ” .
“ This mental health curve arising needs to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incoming government with a national multisectoral taskforce , clear leadership and doubling of the funding to mental health services required , ” said Dr Flannery .

Abuse and neglect in the home and an increased reliance on drugs and alcohol are also believed to have contributed to the rise in emergency mental health presentations. Photograph: iStock
Irish psychiatrists say there has been a “worrying increase” in mental health referrals and urgent presentations to specialist services during the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown period.
Research carried out by the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland warned of the emergence of a “new mental health curve that will need flattening” and said nearly half of its members had noticed a rise in patients experiencing a relapse of mental illness.
More than two thirds of the 200 consultant psychiatrists who took part in the survey reported a lull in mental health services after lockdown was announced in March and a subsequent increase in service needs between mid-April and mid-May.
When compared to numbers before lockdown, one in three consultant psychiatrists saw an increase in the number of emergency referrals while half of those surveyed said the number of patients experiencing a relapse in mental illness had increased.
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Nearly 60 per cent of psychiatrists felt the demand for inpatient beds had increased in the past month when compared to the first month of lockdown while about 80 per cent felt that social isolation and reduced access to face-to-face secondary mental health supports was contributing to emergency presentations.
Psychiatrists also recorded a “swell” in people presenting because of self-harm and suicidal ideation, new onset depression and general anxiety.
Reduced access to local counselling supports and GPs, abuse and neglect in the home and an increased reliance on drugs and alcohol are also believed to have contributed to the rise in emergency presentations, according to the survey.
School closures were also flagged as a significant stress in people’s lives.
Online challenges
More than two thirds of psychiatrists who participated in the IT section of the study said they felt they were “ill-equipped” to conduct their duties online, adding that poor wifi signal often made consultations a challenge.
While teams have adapted to online and video-link services and new referral pathways, these new adaptations have left “clear staffing deficits exposed”, says the report.
Dr William Flannery, president of the College of Psychiatrists, noted that while more data was needed to predict an increase in presentations, “pressure on the mental health services is clearly arising”.
“This mental health curve arising needs to be urgently addressed and flattened by the incoming government with a national multisectoral taskforce, clear leadership and doubling of the funding to mental health services required,” said Dr Flannery.


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Man and woman killed in road traffic collision in Co Meath

A man and a woman have been killed following a road traffic collision in Co Meath on Wednesday .
The collision , which involved a car and a lorry , occurred at about 1.10pm at Dunmoe , Navan .
Gardaí , ambulance services and the fire brigade attended the scene .
However , the male driver ( 23 ) and female passenger ( 21 ) of the car were both killed .
Both their bodies have been removed from the scene and taken to Our Lady ’ s Hospital , Navan , where postmortems will take place on Thursday morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lorry was uninjured .
He was arrested at the scene and taken to Navan Garda station where he was later released .
Investigations are ongoing .
Garda forensic collision investigators attended the scene and the road remains closed .
Traffic diversions are in place .
Gardaí in Navan are appealing for anyone with information in relation to the collision to come forward .
Gardaí are also appealing for any road users who may have camera footage , including dash-cam , who were travelling on the N51 between Navan and Slane from 12.30pm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to gardaí .
Anyone with information is asked to contact Navan Garda station on 046 9079930 , the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 , or any Garda station .

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact them.
A man and a woman have been killed following a road traffic collision in Co Meath on Wednesday.
The collision, which involved a car and a lorry, occurred at about 1.10pm at Dunmoe, Navan.
Gardaí, ambulance services and the fire brigade attended the scene. However, the male driver (23) and female passenger (21) of the car were both killed.
Both their bodies have been removed from the scene and taken to Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, where postmortems will take place on Thursday morning.
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The driver (31) of the lorry was uninjured. He was arrested at the scene and taken to Navan Garda station where he was later released. Investigations are ongoing.
Garda forensic collision investigators attended the scene and the road remains closed. Traffic diversions are in place.
Gardaí in Navan are appealing for anyone with information in relation to the collision to come forward.
Gardaí are also appealing for any road users who may have camera footage, including dash-cam, who were travelling on the N51 between Navan and Slane from 12.30pm to 1.15pm to make this footage available to gardaí.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Navan Garda station on 046 9079930, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Segregated cycle route from Blackrock to Forty Foot to be set up

A segregated cycle route , from Blackrock to the Forty Foot bathing spot in Sandycove in south Dublin , is to be installed almost 20 years since it was first planned .
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is to introduce a one-way system for cars along the coastal route to facilitate what it describes as a “ dramatic and necessary shift to walking and cycling ” during the coronavirus pandemic .
Work on the 3.6km route will start early next month and will take about three to four weeks to complete with certain phases of the temporary cycle route being opened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council said .
The path will require the implementation of a one-way system for vehicles on Seapoint Avenue , Queen ’ s Road , Windsor Terrace and Marine Parade .
Traffic will no longer be able to access the harbour car park closest to the East Pier via Queen ’ s Road and instead access to this and other car parks within the harbour will be facilitated from the Queen ’ s Road/Marine Road junction and via Coal Quay Bridge .
There will be no change to the direction of flow of traffic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roads between Seapoint Avenue and Monkstown Road and existing public transport , including bus routes and bus stops , will remain unaffected .
The one-way measures “ will not adversely impact traffic in the Sandycove and Glasthule area ” , the council said .
The road network would not be able to support additional trips by car which could arise from a reduction in public transport capacity , and the plan is “ in line with current Government public health advice where people are advised to walk or cycle if they can and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to ” , the council said .
There had already been large increases in the number of people walking in the area and pedestrians “ are often faced with situations where there is not enough footway width to cater for the need to maintain 2m physical distancing , which can lead to people stepping off the footpath and potentially colliding with oncoming traffic ” , the council said .
“ In addition , the profile of cyclists typically using the road is changing with cyclists of all ages and abilities now using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cycleways .
The increase in numbers of pedestrians and cyclists , together with an increase in average vehicle speeds on our roads , and the absence of dedicated or segregated cycleways on particular routes may present a significant risk to these vulnerable road users.
” While the measures are described as temporary , the council said : “ This is also an opportunity as a society to reflect on the use of public space and to possibly reimagine our use of , and relationship with , that space.
” In 2002 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the S2S was proposed , to run along the seafront all the way from Sutton to Sandycove .
While the northside section is largely completed , only short unconnected paths are in place on the southside .
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council last month began implementing a temporary one-way traffic system in Blackrock , to reallocate space to cyclists and pedestrians .

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said work on the 3.6km route would start early next month and take about three to four weeks to complete. File photograph: Eric Luke
A segregated cycle route, from Blackrock to the Forty Foot bathing spot in Sandycove in south Dublin, is to be installed almost 20 years since it was first planned.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is to introduce a one-way system for cars along the coastal route to facilitate what it describes as a “dramatic and necessary shift to walking and cycling” during the coronavirus pandemic.
Work on the 3.6km route will start early next month and will take about three to four weeks to complete with certain phases of the temporary cycle route being opened earlier as works are completed, the council said.
The path will require the implementation of a one-way system for vehicles on Seapoint Avenue, Queen’s Road, Windsor Terrace and Marine Parade.
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Traffic will no longer be able to access the harbour car park closest to the East Pier via Queen’s Road and instead access to this and other car parks within the harbour will be facilitated from the Queen’s Road/Marine Road junction and via Coal Quay Bridge.
There will be no change to the direction of flow of traffic or existing car parking arrangements on connecting roads between Seapoint Avenue and Monkstown Road and existing public transport, including bus routes and bus stops, will remain unaffected. The one-way measures "will not adversely impact traffic in the Sandycove and Glasthule area", the council said.
The road network would not be able to support additional trips by car which could arise from a reduction in public transport capacity, and the plan is “in line with current Government public health advice where people are advised to walk or cycle if they can and to avoid using public transport unless they need to”, the council said.
There had already been large increases in the number of people walking in the area and pedestrians “are often faced with situations where there is not enough footway width to cater for the need to maintain 2m physical distancing, which can lead to people stepping off the footpath and potentially colliding with oncoming traffic”, the council said.
“In addition, the profile of cyclists typically using the road is changing with cyclists of all ages and abilities now using the county’s roads, streets and cycleways. The increase in numbers of pedestrians and cyclists, together with an increase in average vehicle speeds on our roads, and the absence of dedicated or segregated cycleways on particular routes may present a significant risk to these vulnerable road users.”
While the measures are described as temporary, the council said: “This is also an opportunity as a society to reflect on the use of public space and to possibly reimagine our use of, and relationship with, that space.”
In 2002, a continuous Dublin Bay cycle route called the S2S was proposed, to run along the seafront all the way from Sutton to Sandycove. While the northside section is largely completed, only short unconnected paths are in place on the southside.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council last month began implementing a temporary one-way traffic system in Blackrock, to reallocate space to cyclists and pedestrians.


theirishtimes--2020-06-17--Text messages about pandemic payment a ‘scam’, department says

Text messages relating to the pandemic unemployment payment and requesting bank account details is a “ scam ” and should be ignored , the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection ( DEASP ) has warned .
In a statement , the department said it has “ become aware ” that some members of the public have received text messages on their mobile phones from an unknown number telling them that they are entitled to the Covid-19 payment and to click on the link - socialwelfareireland - provided in the message .
When the person clicks on the link , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bank account details .
The department has advised customers and the public that “ this text message is a scam and the link has nothing to do with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection ” .
“ Please do not click on the link or reply to the text , ” the statement added .
DEASP said it wishes to make it “ absolutely clear ” that it never requests bank account or other financial institution account details from customers by phone or on social media , adding that it also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the phone .
Bank account information is only accepted as part of a written application to the department , DEASP said .
Anyone who thinks they provided personal information in response to these fraudulent text messages should contact their bank immediately , it added .

When a person clicks on the link in the scam text message, they are asked to provide their bank account details. Photograph: iStock
Text messages relating to the pandemic unemployment payment and requesting bank account details is a “scam” and should be ignored, the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) has warned.
In a statement, the department said it has “become aware” that some members of the public have received text messages on their mobile phones from an unknown number telling them that they are entitled to the Covid-19 payment and to click on the link - socialwelfareireland - provided in the message.
When the person clicks on the link, they are then asked to provide their bank account details.
The department has advised customers and the public that “this text message is a scam and the link has nothing to do with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection”.
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“Please do not click on the link or reply to the text,” the statement added.
DEASP said it wishes to make it “absolutely clear” that it never requests bank account or other financial institution account details from customers by phone or on social media, adding that it also does not clarify or check this information over the phone.
Bank account information is only accepted as part of a written application to the department, DEASP said.
Anyone who thinks they provided personal information in response to these fraudulent text messages should contact their bank immediately, it added.


theirishtimes--2020-06-18--2m guideline putting public transport under pressure, says NTA chief

Public transport services will remain under pressure while the two metre physical distancing guidelines remain in place , the National Transport Authority ( NTA ) has said .
It was difficult to manage groups of people at bus stops , NTA chief executive Anne Graham told RTÉ radio ’ s Today with Sarah McInerney show , which was why the NTA was appealing to people not to travel at peak times unless it was an essential journey and they were an essential worker .
Ms Graham also encouraged people to have conversations with family and friends about the wearing of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when asked if the NTA wanted face covering to become mandatory , she said that was a matter for public health officials .
When further pressed if the NTA would consider not allowing passengers without face coverings onto public transport , Ms Graham said it was something to consider but it was a matter for the Government .
The NTA would continue to encourage people to use face coverings while on public transport , to travel at off-peak times and to walk or cycle if they could , she said .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ This is something that may be with us for a number of months.
” Capacity was not an issue at the moment , but she acknowledged that occasionally customers could be left behind at bus stops as demand grows .
“ It is getting to the stage where this could be a problem , ” she said .
In Phase 3 it will become more difficult to maintain the two metre distance at peak times .
“ That ’ s why we ’ re encouraging people to travel off-peak and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home.
” The NTA is looking to see if it can increase capacity off-peak , but there could not be any additional capacity at peak times under the present guidelines .
“ Reducing the two metre rule to one metre would assist with capacity .
It will become difficult if demand continue to increase , that ’ s why we are encouraging people to use public transport only for essential journeys.
” Rural transport services are busier than ever , she added .
Ms Graham also said that revenues have decreased dramatically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 65 per cent of income , which will mean more pressure for increased State funding so that services can continue up to the end of the year .

NTA says that in Phase 3 it will become more difficult to maintain the two metre distance at peak times. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw/The Irish Times
Public transport services will remain under pressure while the two metre physical distancing guidelines remain in place, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has said.
It was difficult to manage groups of people at bus stops, NTA chief executive Anne Graham told RTÉ radio's Today with Sarah McInerney show, which was why the NTA was appealing to people not to travel at peak times unless it was an essential journey and they were an essential worker.
Ms Graham also encouraged people to have conversations with family and friends about the wearing of face coverings on public transport. However, when asked if the NTA wanted face covering to become mandatory, she said that was a matter for public health officials.
When further pressed if the NTA would consider not allowing passengers without face coverings onto public transport, Ms Graham said it was something to consider but it was a matter for the Government.
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The NTA would continue to encourage people to use face coverings while on public transport, to travel at off-peak times and to walk or cycle if they could, she said.
The responsibility rests with the customer, she said. “This is something that may be with us for a number of months.” Capacity was not an issue at the moment, but she acknowledged that occasionally customers could be left behind at bus stops as demand grows.
“It is getting to the stage where this could be a problem,” she said.
In Phase 3 it will become more difficult to maintain the two metre distance at peak times. “That’s why we’re encouraging people to travel off-peak and urging employers to allow staff to work from home.”
The NTA is looking to see if it can increase capacity off-peak, but there could not be any additional capacity at peak times under the present guidelines.
“Reducing the two metre rule to one metre would assist with capacity. It will become difficult if demand continue to increase, that’s why we are encouraging people to use public transport only for essential journeys.”
Rural transport services are busier than ever, she added.
Ms Graham also said that revenues have decreased dramatically across the board. Fares usually account for 65 per cent of income, which will mean more pressure for increased State funding so that services can continue up to the end of the year.


theirishtimes--2020-06-18--Detective garda shot dead in Co Roscommon served on force for 24 years

The detective garda who was killed in the line of duty in Co Roscommon on Wednesday night had served as member of An Garda Síochána for 24 years .
From Charlestown in Co Mayo , Det Garda Colm Horkan died from fatal gunshot wounds in Castlerea shortly before midnight .
It is understood the shooting took place near the Garda station after the detective stopped his car and a scuffle ensued with a man , during which the man took control of the detective ’ s weapon and shot him .
A man was arrested and is being held for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Garda Horkan was left critically injured at the scene , which was sealed off immediately as other gardaí and paramedics arrived .
His death was announced by An Garda Síochána just after 6am on Thursday morning .
In his 40s , it is understood he has worked in Co Roscommon for many years .
Paying tribute , Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said Det Garda Horkan “ served the communities he worked in with distinction and pride during his 24 years as a member of An Garda Síochána ” .
“ My thoughts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ An Garda Síochána , are with the family , friends and colleagues of Detective Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea Garda Station and the Detective Unit he served in .
“ Det Garda Colm Horkan is the 89th member of An Garda Síochána killed in the line of duty .
Today is a terrible reminder of the significant sacrifices , including the ultimate sacrifice , that gardaí make to keep people save , ” Mr Harris said .
President Michael D Higgins said the death of the garda detective has “ come as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As President of Ireland I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the Garda , and to all those who have been affected by this tragedy , ” Mr Higgins said .
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also extended his sympathies to the family and friends of the garda detective .
“ Every day our gardaí put themselves on the frontline of crime prevention , on behalf of all of us , ” Mr Varadkar said .
“ This requires regular acts of bravery and courage .
Sometimes the outcome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties .
”

Detective Garda Colm Horkan, nicknamed Bear, was described by sources on Thursday as the "quintessential local guard" and a "pure GAA man".
The Mayo man joined the Garda in 1994 and was in the Garda College in Templemore at the same time as Adrian Donohue. It is understood the two men sometimes sat within three seats of each other in class.
Detective Garda Donohue would be shot dead in 2013 in a Credit Union robbery in Louth, becoming the 87th garda to be killed in the line of duty.
Seven years later Det Gda Horkan became the 89th when he was shot to death on a Castlerea street on Thursday morning at the age of 49.
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In between was the death of Gda Tony Golden, shot dead while responding to a domestic violence incident in 2015. Like Colm, Tony was a Mayo man. Like Adrian, he was murdered in Louth.
The shooting took place near the Garda station after the detective stopped his car and a scuffle ensued with a man, during which the man took control of the detective’s weapon and shot him. A man was arrested and is being held for questioning in Castlerea Garda station. Det Garda Horkan was left critically injured at the scene and found by colleagues in a passing patrol car.
Colm had a twin sister, Collette who died from cancer several years ago, as well as another sister and four brothers.
He lived with his father Marty just outside Charlestown in Mayo and commuted to his station in Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon in the Castlerea District.
His family are heavily involved in all aspects of life in Charlestown and at one stage they owned a pub in the town. Today, Colm’s brother runs a funeral directors there while their father continues to operate a taxi business.
Outside of the Garda, Colm’s life revolved around the GAA club where his football style earned him the nickname “Bear.”
“Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club have been left devastated by the untimely and tragic death of our friend and brother, Colm Horkan,” the club said in a statement on Thursday.
“Colm and his family are synonymous with our club and Gaelic games within Mayo, a very dark cloud hangs over Fr O’Hara Park and our entire community today.”
Colm was also involved in various forms of charity work; his Facebook page is a list of fundraising appeals for causes such as suicide awareness and the Mater Hospital. Other posts implore his followers to abide by the coronavirus regulations to save lives.
Colm was a “very, very well reputed fellow. I know that can sound a bit trite but that is exactly what everyone is telling us verbatim.” said a spokesman for the Garda Representative Association. (GRA).
Another colleague called Colm “a brilliant local garda, the quintessential local country garda. Always there for any problem big or small.”
Colm spent most of his career in uniform in a community facing role. The difficulties of that job came to light last year when he gave evidence before a Coroner’s Court of finding a woman’s body in her home in Castlerea after she had lain undiscovered for more than six weeks. Colm and two others broke down the door of the woman’s house after no one had seen her for several months.
He had only been assigned to plain clothes duty a few weeks ago, meaning, for the first time, he carried a firearm on duty for protection. He had been assigned to conduct anti-crime patrols around Castlerea.
“Solid,” was how Mayo Garda Ronan O’Grady described Colm, who he knew both inside and outside the job. “Everyone in Charlestown loved him. He’d be kind of a community leader there.”
“The garda community are in deep shock. A lot of guards would have known Colm very well through the GAA and through work. He was deeply, deeply respected.
“I got to know him 22 years ago when I joined the guards through a couple of Charlestown lads. He was always looking out for lads. You couldn’t say anything wrong about Colm. An absolute gentleman.”
As a garda he preferred the gentle approach,” Gda O’Grady said. “He was always keeping an eye on lads if they were out for the night. Making sure they wouldn’t do anything foolish.”
“And he was a great Mayo supporter. I met him last year in New York, he was over for the Mayo Match,” Gda O’Grady said.
Sacrafice
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said Colm "served the communities he worked in with distinction and pride during his 24 years as a member of An Garda Síochána".
"My thoughts, and the thoughts of all personnel in An Garda Síochána, are with the family, friends and colleagues of Detective Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea Garda Station and the Detective Unit he served in.
"Det Garda Colm Horkan is the 89th member of An Garda Síochána killed in the line of duty. Today is a terrible reminder of the significant sacrifices, including the ultimate sacrifice, that gardaí make to keep people save," Mr Harris said.
President Michael D Higgins said the death of the garda detective has "come as a shock to us all".
"As President of Ireland I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the Garda, and to all those who have been affected by this tragedy," Mr Higgins said.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also extended his sympathies to the family and friends of the garda detective.
“Every day our gardaí put themselves on the frontline of crime prevention, on behalf of all of us,” Mr Varadkar said.
“This requires regular acts of bravery and courage. Sometimes the outcome is tragic and a Garda makes the ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties.”


theirishtimes--2020-06-18--Garda detective (49) shot with own gun after struggle during incident in Roscommon

Tributes have been paid to Det Gda Colm Horkan who was killed in a shooting incident in Castlerea , Co Roscommon late on Wednesday night .
Det Gda Horkan ( 49 ) , who was on duty at the time , died from gunshot wounds shortly before midnight after a struggle with a man in the centre of the town .
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said he was “ deeply saddened ” by the death , and tributes have been paid by President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar .
“ My thoughts , and the thoughts of all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the family , friends and colleagues of Detective Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea Garda Station and the Detective Unit he served in , ” Mr Harris said in a statement on Thursday morning .
“ Colm served the communities he worked in with distinction and pride during his 24 years as a member of An Garda Síochána.
” He lived with his father in his native Charlestown , Co Mayo where he was very heavily involved in the local GAA club .
He is pre-deceased by his twin sister and survived by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shooting took place near Castlerea Garda station after the detective stopped his car and a scuffle ensued with a man , during which the man took control of the detective ’ s weapon and shot him .
Garda sources told The Irish Times that Det Gda Horkan was not responding to a call and did not intervene in any dispute at the time of the incident .
However , during an anti-crime patrol the detective stopped a man to speak to him on Main Street , apparently to ask about his movements , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then fired several shots from the detective ’ s service weapon , fatally injuring the garda .
Witnesses say they heard up to five shots go off .
Two gardaí from Castlerea station , who were passing the scene at the time in a patrol car , saw the immediate aftermath of the killing .
They then tackled the suspect and arrested him .
The parish priest in Castlerea , Fr John McManus later performed the last rites on Det Gda Colm Horkan and prayed with officers at the scene .
A man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Castlerea Garda station on Thursday .
The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission has been informed as it must be notified of any such incidents involving loss of life or serious injury within the Garda and where a garda ’ s official firearm was involved .
Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to come forward , particularly those who were in Castlerea town centre between 11.30pm and 12.30am or those with dashcam footage .
An incident room has been set up in Castlerea Garda station on 094 962 1635 .
The garda ’ s body was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hospital where a postmortem is due to be done later by the State pathologist .
“ The scene at the junction of Patrick Street and Main Street Castlerea remains sealed off pending a forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau , ” a Garda statement said .
“ A man , aged in his 40s , was arrested at the scene and remains detained at Castlerea Garda Station under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act 1939.
” President Michael D Higgins said the death of Det Gda Horkan had “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
“ As President of Ireland I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the garda , and to all those who have been affected by this tragedy , ” Mr Higgins said .
Mr Varadkar also extended his sympathies to the family and friends of the garda detective .
“ Every day our gardaí put themselves on the frontline of crime prevention , on behalf of all of us , ” Mr Varadkar said .
“ Our thoughts today are with all those grieving as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Justice Charlie Flanagan also offered his sympathy to man ’ s family .
“ Tragic news from Castlerea this morning with the death of Garda in the line of duty , ” Mr Flanagan said on Twitter on Thursday .
“ My heartfelt sympathy to his family , friends & all Gardai .
Murder investigation under way.
” Det Gda Horkan was the 89th Garda member to die on duty since the foundation of the State .
It is almost five years since the last Garda member was killed on the line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot dead in Omeath , Co Louth , in October 2015 by dissident republican Adrian Creavan .
Gda Golden , an unarmed uniformed garda , was attempting to bring the killer ’ s partner to safety from a domestic violence situation .
Creavan then turned the gun on himself .
Two gardaí were shot dead in Co Roscommon in 1980 .
Det Gda John Morley and Gda Henry Byrne died on July 7th that year after intercepting armed bank raiders at Shannon ’ s Cross , just outside the village of Loughglynn in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were also based in Castlerea station .

Det Gda Colm Horkan (43) has been killed in a shooting incident in Castlerea, Co Roscommon following a scuffle with a man in the town centre.
The man who shot a detective garda in Castlerea, Co Roscommon, on Wednesday night fired 15 times with four shots hitting Det Gda Colm Horkan who was on duty at the time.
The 49 year old detective garda died from gunshot wounds shortly before midnight following a struggle with the man in the centre of the town.
The shooting took place near Castlerea Garda station after the detective stopped the man to speak to him on Main Street, apparently after seeing a motorcycle being driven erratically.
It is understood a struggle then ensued during which the detective’s firearm came loose from its holster.
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The other man then fired the gun multiple times - up to 15 rounds, which is the capacity of the gun - with a number of shots hitting Det Gda Horkan. The gun was empty of bullets when recovered.
Gardaí spent much of Thursday recovering spent rounds from the surrounding area.
Gardaí at the scene of the fatal shooting of a detective in Castlerea on Thursday. Photograph: Michael McCormack
The shooting took place on the town’s Main Street. Photograph: Michael McCormack
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris who visited the scene on Thursday said he was deeply saddened by the death.
He said there was no evidence that the killing was linked to organised crime or subversives.
Speaking in Castlerea he said while all aspects of the Garda’s resources, tactics and policing methodology would be reviewed in light of the fatal shooting, there appeared to be unique characteristics to the crime that may not necessitate major changes in the Republic’s policing.
“This act is unusual, it’s an aberration and viewed as such. And so we’d have to think very carefully before we would change our policing tactics. Our policing tactics are successful in that we enjoy the full support of this society.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said there was no evidence that the killing was linked to organised crime or subversives. Photograph: PA
“What we have here is a random act, obviously a violent act, which has led to the death of Det Garda Horkan. It is tragic and it is an attack upon us all.”
Arrested
Two gardaí from Castlerea station, who were passing the scene of the shooting in a patrol car, saw the immediate aftermath of the killing. They tackled the suspect and arrested him.
Speaking at Government buildings on Thursday afternoon the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expressed his condolences to the family of Det Garda Horkan and said his death was in the “most tragic of circumstances and today a nation is grieving”.
Mr Varadkar said he had spoken to the Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan about the incident and had been in touch with Det Garda Horkan’s family.
"I extend my condolences to all of his colleagues in Castlerea Garda Station, to every member of An Garda Síochána, to his friends and all who knew him".
He said Det Gda Horkan “gave his life protecting the community he served with distinction and courage during his 24 years as a member of An Garda Síochána.
“His story is the same as thousands of men and women who wear the uniform. It is a story of courage, sacrifice and service.
“Our gardaí are the guardians of the peace and defenders of the rule of law. They are role models in our society.
“This tragedy is a heartrending reminder of how much we owe our gardaí for the work they have done all over the country.”
Last rites
Castlerea parish priest Fr John McManus performed the last rites on Det Gda Horkan and prayed with officers at the scene.
The suspect, a man in his 40s, was being questioned at Castlerea Garda station on Thursday. The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission has been informed as it must be notified of any such incidents involving loss of life or serious injury within the Garda and where a garda’s official firearm was involved.
Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to come forward, particularly those who were in Castlerea town centre between 11.30pm and 12.30am or those with dashcam footage. An incident room has been set up in Castlerea Garda station on 094 962 1635.
The garda’s body was taken from the scene to Castlebar General Hospital where a postmortem is due to be done later by the State pathologist.
“The scene at the junction of Patrick Street and Main Street Castlerea remains sealed off pending a forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau,” a Garda statement said.
“A man, aged in his 40s, was arrested at the scene and remains detained at Castlerea Garda Station under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act 1939.”
Charlestown
Det Garda Horkan lived with his father in his native Charlestown, Co Mayo where he was heavily involved in the local GAA club. He is pre-deceased by his mother and twin sister and is survived by another sister and four brothers.
Many tributes have been paid to Det Gda Horkan and a large number of people attended prayers in his memory in Castlerea on Thursday night.
Friends and colleagues of Det Garda Colm Horkan pictured at a prayer service for him in The Hub, Castlerea on Thursday evening. Photograph: Colin Keegan/ Collins Dublin
Friends and colleagues of Det Garda Colm Horkan pictured at a prayer service for him in The Hub, Castlerea. Photograph: Colin Keegan/Collins Dublin
President Michael D Higgins said the death of Det Gda Horkan had “come as a shock to us all”.
“As President of Ireland I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the garda, and to all those who have been affected by this tragedy,” Mr Higgins said.
Mr Flanagan, who travelled to Castlerea, also offered his sympathy to man’s family. He said these were difficult days for An Garda Síochána and there was a palpable feeling of grief and shock in the town.
Det Gda Horkan was the 89th Garda member to die on duty since the foundation of the State.
It is almost five years since the last Garda member was killed on the line of duty. Garda Tony Golden was shot dead in Omeath, Co Louth, in October 2015 by dissident republican Adrian Creaven Mackin.
Gda Golden, an unarmed uniformed garda, was attempting to bring the killer’s partner to safety from a domestic violence situation. Creavan Mackin then turned the gun on himself.
The shooting happened close to Henry Byrne Road, named after one of two officers shot dead in 1980 after a bank robbery. Det Gda John Morley and Gda Henry Byrne died on July 7th that year after intercepting armed bank raiders at Shannon’s Cross, just outside the village of Loughglynn in the west of the county. They were also based in Castlerea station.
‘Heartbroken’
Retired Roscommon garda sergeant John Hynes spoke of his devastation at the death of his close friend and former colleague Det Garda Horkan.
“He was part of our family. Our own children are heartbroken,” he told RTÉ Liveline programme.
“From the get go Colm was the most reliable guard you could get,” he said.
Detective Garda Colm Horkan was a member of the force for 24 years
Detective Horkan had moved to Castlerea in 1999 having spent his first four years in the force in Finglas. “He was delighted to get closer to home. He was a rock of sense, a true professional with great attention to detail in every aspect of the job. You could always rely on him. One of nature’s gentlemen. Really and truly he was my right hand man, my best friend,” he added.
“Colm worked on the [Roscommon] House of Horrors case with me. I relied on him heavily ... He had been one of the main cogs that brought the case forward, that could not have happened without his attention to detail in preparing the cases.
“Colm was an all rounder in sports, he was a great footballer and a keen golfer. He excelled no matter what he turned his hand to. I never heard anyone say anything other than a good word about Colm Horkan.
“He was the epitome of what it means to be a guard in contemporary society. He had a sense of calm about him when confronting a dangerous situation. He would talk a person down. He had that quality.”
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Tom Brabazon has opened a book of condolence for the people of Dublin to extend their sympathies to the family of Det Garda Horkan.


theirishtimes--2020-06-18--‘A shock to us all’: President Higgins leads tributes to Det Gda Colm Horkan

President Michael D Higgins has led tributes to a Det Gda Colm Horkan who was shot dead in Castlerea , Co Roscommon on Wednesday night .
Det Gda Horkan , who was on duty at the time , died from fatal gunshot wounds following an incident in the town shortly before midnight .
A man has since been arrested and is being held for questioning in Castlerea Garda station .
President Higgins said the death of the garda detective has “ come as a shock to us all ” .
“ As President of Ireland I wish to express my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Garda , and to all those who have been affected by this tragedy , ” Mr Higgins said .
“ An Garda Síochána play a crucial role in our communities and this loss of life is traumatic for our society as a whole .
I have contacted the Garda Commissioner to express my deepest sympathies on this terrible loss of a member of the Force.
” Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has also extended his sympathies to the family and friends of Det Gda Colm Horkan .
“ Every day our gardaí put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , on behalf of all of us , ” Mr Varadkar said .
“ This requires regular acts of bravery and courage .
Sometimes the outcome is tragic and a Garda makes the ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties .
“ Our thoughts today are with all those grieving as a result of this tragic incident.
” Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan said he was “ deeply shocked and saddened ” at the shooting of a Garda member .
“ His death will cause untold heartbreak to his family , loved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Garda Síochána across the whole country .
It is also a loss to wider Irish society .
His heroism and the debt of gratitude which we owe to him and his family will never be forgotten , ” Mr Flanagan said .
“ The women and men of An Garda Síochána serve the whole community and work to keep Ireland safe .
In their everyday duty , they put the welfare of others ahead of themselves , as they work to shield us from harm and to connect our communities .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of crisis , including during the current pandemic.
” The parish priest in Castlerea , Fr John McManus has told of the poignant scene when he performed the last rites on Det Gda Colm Horkan .
Fr McManus had received the call just after midnight to attend at the scene which was close to the church .
“ You ’ re never sure what the next phone call will be , when you get a call from the gardaí you never know what you face , little did I know that it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McManus told RTÉ ’ s Morning Ireland .
Colleagues of the shot garda detective were “ so professional ” at the scene and it had been “ so poignant , ” he said .
“ They were literally praying with me.
” Jim Mulligan , president of the Garda Representative Association ( GRA ) , said the garda detective who was fatally wounded was based in Ballaghaderreen , Co Roscommon , in the Castlerea District .
“ A native of Co Mayo , he joined An Garda Síochána in 1995 , and was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He is survived by his father , sister and four brothers , ” Mr Mulligan said .
“ Our thoughts are with his family and colleagues at this very distressing time .
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
” The Policing Authority said the killing of a garda “ as well as being a wilful denial of the right to life , is an attack on the essence and the foundations of our democracy ” .
“ It is a fundamental assault on the principle of equality .
In the midst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the health emergency , the Garda Síochána will mourn the death of a colleague.
” Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway Denis Naughten said he was “ absolutely shocked and saddened ” to hear that a garda had died in the line of duty .
“ This is devastating news for his family , the dedicated team of gardaí in Castlerea and the community , ” he said .
“ Our thoughts & prayers are with his family at this time.
” Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim Frank Feighan expressed his horror at the shooting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are “ shocked and sad ” this morning .
“ This man was killed in the line of duty , shielding us from harm and protecting the vulnerable and it is a terrible price to pay , ” he told Newstalk Breakfast .
“ Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of this garda and his brave garda colleagues and friends.
” Mr Feighan pointed out that the killing comes just short of 40 years after two gardaí were shot dead in the nearby village of Lough Glynn .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ They protect the community and we owe a huge debt of gratitude for their sacrifice and it is so sad that a young man is taken down in this manner .
“ It is just a huge tragedy and again a huge shock in this area.
” Fianna Fail ’ s justice spokesman Jim O ’ Callaghan said “ this was not just an attack on one individual ; it was an attack on civilised society ” .
“ We need to send out the message loud and clear that we will simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against members of An Garda Síochana , ” Mr O ’ Callaghan said .
It is understood the shooting took place near the Garda station after the detective stopped his car and a scuffle ensued with a man , during which the man took control of the detective ’ s weapon and shot him.The Office of the State Pathologist has been informed and a postmortem on the garda ’ s remains was due to take place later on Thursday .
All the resources of a murder inquiry have already been committed to the @ @ @ @ @ @

Gardaí at the scene of the fatal shooting of a detective in Castlerea on Thursday. Photograph: Michael McCormack
President Michael D Higgins has led tributes to Det Garda Colm Horkan, who was shot dead in Castlerea, Co Roscommon on Wednesday night.
Det Garda Horkan, who was on duty at the time, died from fatal gunshot wounds following an incident in the town shortly before midnight.
A man has since been arrested and is being held for questioning in Castlerea Garda station.
Tragic news from Castlerea this morning with the death of Garda in the line of duty. My heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends & all Gardai. Murder investigation under way. pic.twitter.com/tgAosMJZBa — Charlie Flanagan (@CharlieFlanagan) June 18, 2020
President Higgins said the death of the garda detective has “come as a shock to us all”.
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"As President of Ireland I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the Garda, and to all those who have been affected by this tragedy," Mr Higgins said.
"An Garda Síochána play a crucial role in our communities and this loss of life is traumatic for our society as a whole. I have contacted the Garda Commissioner to express my deepest sympathies on this terrible loss of a member of the Force."
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has also extended his sympathies to the family and friends of Det Garda Colm Horkan.
“Every day our gardaí put themselves on the frontline of crime prevention, on behalf of all of us,” Mr Varadkar said.
“This requires regular acts of bravery and courage. Sometimes the outcome is tragic and a Garda makes the ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties.
“Our thoughts today are with all those grieving as a result of this tragic incident.”
Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan said he was "deeply shocked and saddened" at the shooting of a Garda member.
“His death will cause untold heartbreak to his family, loved ones and all his colleagues in An Garda Síochána across the whole country. It is also a loss to wider Irish society. His heroism and the debt of gratitude which we owe to him and his family will never be forgotten,” Mr Flanagan said.
“The women and men of An Garda Síochána serve the whole community and work to keep Ireland safe. In their everyday duty, they put the welfare of others ahead of themselves, as they work to shield us from harm and to connect our communities. It is to them that we turn in times of crisis, including during the current pandemic.”
Last rites
The parish priest in Castlerea, Fr John McManus has told of the poignant scene when he performed the last rites on Det Garda Horkan.
Fr McManus had received the call just after midnight to attend at the scene which was close to the church.
“You’re never sure what the next phone call will be, when you get a call from the gardaí you never know what you face, little did I know that it was one of their own,” Fr McManus told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland.
Colleagues of the garda detective were “so professional” at the scene and it had been “so poignant,” he said. “They were literally praying with me.”
Jim Mulligan, president of the Garda Representative Association (GRA), said the garda detective who was fatally wounded was based in Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon, in the Castlerea District.
"A native of Co Mayo, he joined An Garda Síochána in 1995, and was an experienced detective greatly respected by colleagues. He is survived by his father, sister and four brothers," Mr Mulligan said.
“Our thoughts are with his family and colleagues at this very distressing time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
‘Attack on foundations of democracy’
The Policing Authority said the killing of a garda "as well as being a wilful denial of the right to life, is an attack on the essence and the foundations of our democracy".
“It is a fundamental assault on the principle of equality. In the midst of exemplary service to the community during the health emergency, the Garda Síochána will mourn the death of a colleague.”
Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway Denis Naughten said he was "absolutely shocked and saddened" to hear that a garda had died in the line of duty.
“This is devastating news for his family, the dedicated team of gardaí in Castlerea and the community,” he said. “Our thoughts & prayers are with his family at this time.”
Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim Frank Feighan expressed his horror at the shooting saying people in the town of Castlerea are "shocked and sad" this morning.
“This man was killed in the line of duty, shielding us from harm and protecting the vulnerable and it is a terrible price to pay,” he told Newstalk Breakfast.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of this garda and his brave garda colleagues and friends.”
Mr Feighan pointed out that the killing comes just short of 40 years after two gardaí were shot dead in the nearby village of Lough Glynn.
“Gardaí are of the community. They protect the community and we owe a huge debt of gratitude for their sacrifice and it is so sad that a young man is taken down in this manner.
“It is just a huge tragedy and again a huge shock in this area.”
Fianna Fail’s justice spokesman Jim O’Callaghan said “this was not just an attack on one individual; it was an attack on civilised society”.
“We need to send out the message loud and clear that we will simply not tolerate this brutal brand of criminality against members of An Garda Síochana,” Mr O’Callaghan said.
The president of the GAA, John Horan, extended his sympathies to the family of Det Garda Colm Horkan.
“The strength of the GAA is based on the strength of our volunteers and the commitment they make to serve their community, and Colm Horkan had those selfless qualities in abundance,” Mr Horan said.
“He is fondly remembered by his friends in Charlestown Sarsfields GAA club where he not only played, but where he continued to help and serve in a wide range of roles off the field.
“His commitment to others came naturally to him, and was an obvious asset in his role as a Garda.”
It is understood the shooting took place near the Garda station after the detective stopped his car and a scuffle ensued with a man, during which the man took control of the detective’s weapon and shot him.The Office of the State Pathologist has been informed and a postmortem on the garda’s remains was due to take place later on Thursday.
All the resources of a murder inquiry have already been committed to the case by An Garda Síochána.