Assistant Commissioner meets community reps amid concerns over Donegal Garda changes

A delegation from the Donegal Public Participation Network (PPN) Secretariat recently met with Assistant Garda Commissioner Cliona Richardson to discuss planned changes to the Garda model in the county.

The PPN delegation presented arguments for the need to adapt the model to reflect Donegal's unique circumstances, advocating for the introduction of a three Community Engagement Area (CEA) approach.

Behind the scenes, there are moves to have two Community Engagement Areas in Donegal. 

Donegal currently has four Garda Districts: Letterkenny, Buncrana, Milford and Ballyshannon.

The PPN, who represent 653 community groups across the county, emphasised that a three CEA model would allow for enhanced community engagement, equitable resource allocation, and a more localised response to the county’s diverse needs.

This follows a recently reversal of a planned move to have the entire Donegal Garda division amalgamate with Sligo-Leitrim. After extensive lobbying, including representation from senior gardai in the county and the PPN, Donegal has remained as a stand-alone division.

Donegal is surrounded by 1,100km of coastline, has a 100km border with Northern Ireland and is in close proximity to large urban centres like Derry, Strabane and Enniskillen.

The proposed two-CEA Garda model has raised important questions within the community about its ability to effectively address the county's distinct geographical and social landscape. 

By advocating for a three-CEA model, the PPN aims to strengthen the alignment between community priorities and Garda strategies.

The PPN Secretariat voiced the importance of safeguarding services for remote and rural areas, enhancing cross-border collaboration, expansive. coastline and addressing local concerns such as access to policing resources. 

However, the neglect of the Gaeltacht area raises critical concerns. Gaeltacht communities have long faced challenges which are specific to their rural areas and highlight the need for a more inclusive approach

The delegation acknowledged the addition of inspectors to Lifford, Glenties and Letterkenny but also raised concerns of the lack of a Superintendent in Letterkenny for the past 12 months.

Chairperson of the PPN delegation Joe Boland said: “The meeting with Assistant Commissioner Richardson and Chief Superintendent Sheridan was an open, frank and honest discussion with the Garda representation acknowledging the concerns and issues raised and gave an undertaking to give the proposals some consideration and to engage with the PPN when a review will be held.” 

Both parties committed to maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a collaborative process as the Garda model evolves.

The PPN also urged community members to stay informed and actively participate in consultations, recognising that public input is critical to shaping a safer and more connected County Donegal.

Read next: Scoil Niall Mór, Killybegs crowned Donegal Garda Schools Quiz county champions

Assistant Commissioner Richardson, who travelled from Galway, acknowledged the feedback provided by the PPN and reiterated the Garda’s commitment to designing a model that prioritises community trust and safety. 

She “said: We value the insights of community networks like the PPN, and we are open to exploring all perspectives to ensure our policing model is effective and inclusive.”