Donegal Joint Policing Committee held its first meeting in the County House, Lifford on Friday May 28th, 2010. The Committee is chaired by Cllr. Patrick McGowan.
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the Establishment of Joint Policing Committees. The purpose of JPC’s is to provide a forum where a Local Authority and the Senior Garda Officers responsible for the policing of that area, with the participation of Oireachtas members and community interests, can consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of the area. It will be a forum for discussion and a means of building confidence and trust, thereby bringing communities together through a process with which all participants feel comfortable. It is recognised that a JPC should engage with local community groups to the greatest degree possible. Donegal Community Forum is represented on the Policing Committee and will act an essential link to the community as a whole. A key role of the committee is to identify, raise awareness of and find solutions for issues impacting on, or causing concerns for, the local community. JPC’s provide the opportunity to contribute to the improved safety and quality of life of the community
The Joint Policing Committee’s function is to serve as a forum for consultations, discussions and recommendations. It is also to keep under review –
- The levels and patterns of crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour
- The factors underlying and contributing to the levels of crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour in the area
- Advise the local authority concerned and the Garda Síochána on how they might best perform their functions
The work of the Joint Policing Committee in Co. Donegal is supported by the Community and Enterprise Division of Donegal County Council. For further information contact: Cllr. Patrick McGowan, Chairman, Mayfield, Killygordon, Lifford PO, Co Donegal. Telephone 087- 6868438.