Message from Killarney Gardai ahead of Rally of the Lakes

Policing plan for “Rally of the Lakes” finalised.

Dermot O’Connell Sergeant In Charge of Killarney Garda Station outlines that months of planning have culminated in a policing plan that will address all aspects of policing over this very busy holiday weekend.

Due to the cancellation of the Rally in 2020 and 2021 we expect rally enthusiasts to travel to Killarney in large numbers. With the increased traffic volumes on the roads by day and the significant increase in footfall within the town by night, Killarney Gardaí have deployed additional resources for the entire weekend to address all aspects of policing. Everyone is very positive this year, our plan is to provide reassurance to the public, and, in the event of an incident occurring, a timely and appropriate Garda response. 

The policing plan takes into account the increased risk that is associated with all major events. Mobile patrols and checkpoints will be very evident over the weekend. Drivers will randomly be tested on the roadside for alcohol and drugs. Unmarked Garda vehicles will monitor the public roads to detect incidents of dangerous driving. Uniformed and Plain clothes Gardaí will walk the beat to detect illegal drug use and incidents of public disorder. Similar to previous years, individuals arrested may find themselves held in custody overnight and brought directly to court the following day. Our aim this year is to further reduce anti social behaviour. We want all who attend Killarney this weekend to enjoy themselves, enjoy what Killarney has to offer, to create a positive memory of the weekend.

Any individual who intends to cause disruption on the roads or within the town should cast their memory back to the many Garda prosecutions initiated in 2018 and 2019.  

Finally, on behalf of Killarney Gardaí I wish the Rally of the Lakes every success.

Dermot O’Connell Sgt I/C

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