Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan and Midlands-North-West European Parliament candidate Brendan Smith has said that following the ongoing ATM robberies, including last night’s incident in Castleblayney, County Monaghan, senior Garda management must make finding these criminals a priority.

Deputy Brendan Smith commented, “Last night’s robbery in Castleblayney is just one in a spate of attempts to rob ATM’s in our region. I have been attending meetings and visiting constituents across the area and concern is growing.

“Operating both sides of the border this gang are causing much concern in our region. Not to mention the act of stealing ATM’s and the money within, there are farm machinery and JCB’s being stolen to facilitate these crimes.

“Villages are being left with local stores closed, the bank in Castleblayney looks likely to be closed for some time until repair works are completed. There is collateral damage to our towns and villages as a consequence of these vile acts.

“The Minister for Justice and Garda Commissioner must step up their efforts, in conjunction with their peers in the PSNI, to ensure these preparators are held to account. 

“I have continually highlighted in Dáil Éireann to the Justice Minister that there are unique policing demands on Garda Divisions in the border region and that additional resources, including both personnel, modern vehicles and equipment, should be allocated to such areas to deal with crime including cross border criminality,” concluded Deputy Brendan Smith.

Policing PQ Reply Brendan Smith TD