New policy on anti-social behaviour is welcomed

Mayo Co Council's new policy on anti-social behaviour (ASB) cannot deal directly with cases of domestic violence, but the council is engaging with agencies in the sector to help victims and their families.

The issue was raised by Cllr Marie Therese Duffy at the July meeting of the council, as she sought clarification on whether domestic violence could be referenced in the new draft ASB policy, with a safeguard applied whereby the perpetrator, rather than the victim, would have to leave the property. She also asked if the council could provide accommodation for those fleeing such a situation, to give families time to get back on their feet. 

Cllr Gerry Murray agreed that it would be important for the council to provide "safe havens" in such cases, as many people in these situations are “in fear for their lives".

Director of Services Catherine McConnell agreed it was "very important" to have a policy on domestic violence but it falls under separate legislation to ASB.

“We are awaiting national policy guidance and can’t act as judge and jury, but earlier this month we did meet with Safe Ireland representatives in relation to domestic and gender-based violence in terms of how we can collaborate to have more units for victims and give people time and space to recover, as we are very conscious of that.” 

Cllr Donna Sheridan said the new draft policy is very welcome, as she outlined a case where tenants of one particular landlord were “really disrupting people’s lives in at least three estates in Castlebar”, adding: “A public meeting is going to be called by residents because their lives are being made absolutely hell, and it is sometimes going on for years. This needs to stop, so this policy will be very helpful.” 

Cllr Michael Burke agreed it was a very good policy document and a big step forward in terms of the existing rules, saying: “While 97% of private landlords are great, there are some who just don’t care and who will let their properties willy nilly to anyone, so long as they get the maximum return.” 

Cllr Alma Gallagher said ASB and illegal dumping had "gone out of control" in Ballyhaunis and the new policy was very welcome.

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.