No plans to close Meath garda station at night – ‘we need more garda visibility, not less’
Concerns that Kells Garda Station might close overnight have been eased after An Garda Síochána confirmed there are no plans to reduce its hours.
In correspondence to Meath East Sinn Féin TD Darren O’Rourke, a Garda spokesperson said there are currently no plans to close Kells Garda Station at night and that there are “two 24 hour Garda Stations serving Meath North Community Engagement Area, Navan and Kells Garda Stations."
Deputy O’Rourke said: “The idea that the station would see a reduction in service to the local community is completely unacceptable and would be strenuously opposed. In Meath, we have the lowest number of Gardaí. We need more Gardaí and more Garda visibility, not less.”
The clarification follows local concern that the station could be shut at night, prompting two councillors to seek an urgent meeting with the local superintendent.
In a joint statement, Fine Gael councillor Sarah Reilly and Fianna Fáil councillor Sean Drew said they had requested a meeting to seek immediate clarification.
“The proposed closure of Kells Garda Station at night would have serious ramifications for the people of North Meath. The station plays an integral role in ensuring public safety and providing a visible Garda presence in the community,” they said.
“Any move to downgrade or restrict its operations must be resisted in the strongest possible way.”
Both councillors said maintaining adequate policing resources in rural Meath is essential for public safety and community confidence.