Kilkenny Chamber launches Business Watch Programme with An Garda Síochána

Kilkenny's business community gathered in strong numbers at the Club House Hotel recently for the Kilkenny Chamber President's Town Hall, where Chamber President Claire McInerney Brown welcomed local Garda representatives to launch the new Business Watch Programme for Kilkenny City and surrounding areas.

The event brought together Chamber members, business owners and managers to discuss crime prevention, safety and the important role that collaboration between businesses and An Garda Síochána can play in maintaining a vibrant and secure commercial environment.

President Claire McInerney Brown welcomed Inspector Alma Molloy, Sergeant Eddie Brennan, Sergeant Steve Allen, Garda Tommy Doyle and Garda Mark Nolan, thanking them for their commitment to engaging directly with local businesses through the Chamber.

A highlight of the evening was the launch of the Business Watch Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen communication and cooperation between local businesses and An Garda Síochána. The programme aims to provide businesses with timely information, promote crime prevention awareness and create a stronger network of support across the city and environs.

Attendees were introduced to Garda Tommy Doyle, who has recently been appointed to a dedicated role supporting businesses throughout Kilkenny City and its surrounding areas. Garda Doyle will maintain a visible presence on local streets and will work closely with business owners and managers, building relationships and serving as a direct point of contact for businesses.

Inspector Alma Molloy provided an informative overview of the criminal justice process, outlining what businesses can expect when pursuing prosecutions against offenders. Her presentation highlighted the importance of reporting incidents and participating in court proceedings, while offering clarity on the steps involved in bringing criminal cases to conclusion.

Sergeant Eddie Brennan and Sergeant Steve Allen presented encouraging statistics demonstrating reductions in crime levels across recent months when compared with previous reporting periods. Their presentation reinforced the positive impact of proactive engagement and effective policing initiatives throughout Kilkenny City and County.

The Garda representatives also delivered practical advice on crime prevention and the importance of ‘hardening’ business premises against potential break-ins and criminal activity. Business owners learned about measures that can significantly reduce risk, including physical security improvements, surveillance systems and operational procedures designed to deter offenders.

Businesses were reminded that Gardaí are available to visit individual premises, carry out security audits and develop tailored crime prevention plans. These assessments provide practical recommendations that can assist businesses in strengthening their security measures and reducing the likelihood of becoming targets of crime.

Speaking following the event, Kilkenny Chamber President Claire McInerney Brown said: "The launch of the Business Watch Programme represents an important step forward in strengthening the relationship between Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce and An Garda Síochána. The level of engagement at our Town Hall meeting demonstrates the strong appetite among businesses to work collaboratively on crime prevention and safety. We greatly appreciate the time, expertise and commitment shown by Inspector Molloy, Sergeant Brennan, Sergeant Allen, Garda Doyle and Garda Nolan, and we look forward to supporting this initiative in the months ahead."

The Chamber has encouraged all businesses across Kilkenny City and environs to engage with the Business Watch Programme and take advantage of the support and guidance available through their local Garda representatives.