‘Working group’ launched to push for fully functioning Garda station in Laytown
A new community “working group” has been set up to campaign for a fully operational Garda station in Laytown, amid growing concerns about policing resources along the east coast of Co Meath.
Sinn Féin councillor Maria White, who represents the Bettystown–Laytown area, has been elected chair of the group.
She said the aim is to secure a 24/7 Garda station to match the area’s rapidly expanding population.
Cllr White said the group was formed in response to what she described as “prolonged delays” in delivering on a government commitment first announced in 2022.
“I am excited to have been elected as chairperson of our recently formed working group which has set out a goal of campaigning for a fully functioning 24/7 Garda station in Laytown that will serve the residents of Laytown and surrounding areas,” she said.
“I look forward to getting to work with our new committee and members of our working group. We are all in firm agreement that unless there is an active and visible campaign for a Garda station, it likely will not come to fruition.”
“Our intention is to hold this government to account and ensure that the commitment provided by then Minister for Justice McEntee in 2022 for a Garda station for Laytown is carried out. Our community is growing at a rapid scale — it is essential we are provided with services such as an adequate Garda presence to match this increase.”
She referenced a recent parliamentary response received by Sinn Féin TD Darren O’Rourke from Minister of State for Public Expenditure Kevin “Boxer” Moran, indicating the Laytown station would only move forward once a number of other capital projects were completed.
“This essentially means that the fully functioning Garda station for Laytown has been put on the long finger, and residents may now have to wait potentially four more years before we see any progress.”
The councillor said the population boom in Bettystown, Laytown and surrounding areas has increased the demand for local services.
“It is vital that people living in our communities feel safe. A strong Garda presence will not only provide reassurance to members of the community but will also deter criminal activity.”
“We will not tire in our efforts until the people of the East Coast are finally provided with a fully functioning Garda station,” Cllr White added.