20 June 2016
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
This evening the Cork City Joint Policing Committee will launch its first six year strategy with a reception in Mahon Community Centre at 6.45pm. The Six Year Strategic Plan 2016-2021 is a requirement of the Joint Policing Committee Guidelines issued in August 2014.
In his Chairman’s foreword to the strategy Lord Mayor Cllr. Chris O’Leary outlined that
“The Joint Policing Committee (JPC ) is an evolving committee and, as best practice is developed nationally and improvements delivered locally, it is clear that its role as a driver of community safety initiatives will continue to grow in the coming years”.
He added
“This strategy will be delivered through annual JPC plans which will be the instruments through which the actions will lead to outcomes which the public will see through improvements in the way that they can connect with the JPC, there will be clear reporting and a clear focus on issues that need interagency consideration to resolve them.”
The strategy addresses eight key areas:
1. JPC Structure
2. Communications
3. Community Engagement
4. Crime Prevention
5. Anti-social behaviour
6. Road Safety
7. Misuse of alcohol and drugs and related crime
8. Support for crime victims
Work on developing the strategy commenced last September and involved a public consultation phase as well as consideration by Councillors, Oireachtas members and the Public Participation Network (PPN). The plan was compiled by a working group of Cork City Council, An Garda Síochána and the Cork City PPN.
Annual plans will be developed with the JPC membership for the implementation of the different aspects of the strategy.
Speaking in advance of the launch Ann Doherty, Chief Executive, Cork City Council added:
“The Joint Policing Committee provides a formal structure for the City Council to view and plan many of its s services and functions from a community safety perspective. The strategy will provide a framework for the work of the JPC, and underpins the strong working relationship that exists between the City Council and An Garda Síochána, at all levels. “
Chief Superintendent Mick Finn, An Garda Síochána, echoed the Chief Executive’s sentiments stating:
“Together we are committed to making Cork City a safer and better place to live, work and socialise. We are committed to tackling all of the challenges that are presented by a modern vibrant diverse community on a day to day basis. No agency or service can solve all of the ills of society but I am confident that together we are strong and better able to deal with these challenges. I look forward to working with all of the stakeholders in Cork City.
