Galway town sees no need to follow Tuam’s lead on public drinking by-laws but a stronger focus on drug culture
As Tuam leads the way in implementing the Galway’s first public drinking regulations, Ballinasloe councillors do not see a need for their town to rush on board.
A discussion, led by municipal district Cathaoirleach Cllr Evelyn Parsons at a July meeting, showed that unruly public drinking is not an issue at the forefront of the elected representatives’ agendas in Ballinasloe.
There have been little comments, or complaints, made in the chamber regarding anti-social behavior involving alcohol. Therefore, Councilor Dermot Connolly suggested the focus be turned to drug culture as it remains more prevalent, he believes.
Drug use, such as “smoking cannabis and taking other substances”, ends up having a subsequent implications towards health services, Cllr Connolly added referring to certain effects of psychosis.
Councillor Alan Harney, who has been pushing for the activation of CCTV to combat anti-social behaviour, said enforcement remains a key challenge in addressing a range of public safety issues.
Cllr Harney then called for a discussion on establishing by-laws for graveyards and cemeteries.