UP TO 1,500 people gathered at Stepaside Garda Station this afternoon to protest over its imminent closure.
Supported by TD Shane Ross and Sinn Féin, the rally was attended by men, women and children of the locality, holding banners that read “Don’t Shatter Stepaside Garda Station”.
About 20,000 people live in the Stepaside area in county Dublin.
The station is one of five due to be shut down by the Justice Minister. A further 95 stations were closed on Thursday.
There are plans to move the 34 stationed Gardaí to Dundrum.
Speakers included former Assistant Commissioner Martin Donnellan and local community leaders, such as school principals.
Writing in the Sunday Independent today, Donnellan describing the closing of stations “at a stroke” as a disgrace. “It is time for another independent inquiry to show what is needed for the proper policing of Ireland.”
Independent TD, Finian McGrath and Former Garda Assistant Commissioner Martin Donnellan.
Independent TD, Shane Ross speaking at the protest he helped to organise.
Greg Renwich with seven-year-old Jack Hogan.
Alannah Cullen (10), Chloe-Anne O’Connor (6), Jessica Conry (4) and Ben Conry (7).
(Images (except where noted): Sam Boal/Photocall Ireland)
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