Ballybricken Outdoor Drinking Crackdown Calls Increase
Calls for Crackdown on Outdoor Drinking at Ballybricken Intensify
Waterford City Council is facing renewed pressure to implement a “blanket ban” on outdoor drinking in Ballybricken, following escalating concerns over anti-social behavior adn intimidation in the popular public space.
Unruly Behaviour and Intimidation reported
Councillor John Quinlan has been a vocal advocate for action, highlighting a persistent issue with groups regularly consuming alcohol outdoors in the Ballybricken area. he described one particular group as “very unsociable” and “very abusive to anyone who passes,” creating an “extremely intimidating” atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.The presence of such behaviour has led to a growing demand for a more robust response from local authorities.
The Need for a Comprehensive Solution
Councillor Quinlan is urging the local authority to take decisive steps to address the problem.His proposed solution includes the erection of clear signage prohibiting outdoor drinking and the introduction of a specific bye-law.
“Gardaí can intervene but can’t be out there the whole time,” Councillor Quinlan stated, emphasizing the need for a proactive and preventative measure. He is seeking the introduction of a bye-law by the local authority that governs the “use, operation, protection and management of this land in Ballybricken.”
While acknowledging that outdoor drinking in public places is technically a matter for An Garda Síochána, Councillor Quinlan believes the local authority has a crucial role to play in managing public spaces and preventing the escalation of such issues. His call for a bye-law aims to provide a clearer legal framework for enforcement and to deter the behaviour that is negatively impacting the community.
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