University of Limerick Research Unveils Voices on Community Safety

A recent research report from the University of Limerick has shed light on the perspectives of marginalised communities in Ireland regarding policing and community safety. Titled “Hidden Voices, Marginalised Community Perspectives on Policing and Community Safety,” the report highlights the critical need for community safety to be viewed as a collective responsibility, not solely the domain of law enforcement.

Led by researchers from the School of Medicine at the University of Limerick, this study is part of a decade-long effort to understand the experiences of those most affected by policing practices. The research examines the interactions of marginalised individuals with law enforcement, their experiences in prison, and the challenges they face upon release.

Key Findings on Community Safety and Policing

The report outlines several significant findings. It asserts that community safety depends on trust between police and communities, as well as social cohesion and integration. It advocates for a comprehensive approach to address intergenerational poverty and exclusion, emphasizing the importance of strong interagency cooperation.

Moreover, the report addresses complex issues surrounding policing, including mistrust, over-policing, and the detrimental effects on communities when crimes go unreported. It calls for innovative strategies in community policing and enhanced collaboration between An Garda Síochána, health services, and management agencies.

Despite the overrepresentation of marginalised communities in the Irish criminal justice system, their perspectives have often been overlooked. This research encompasses the experiences of asylum seekers, refugees, immigrants, ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, addiction issues, homelessness, autism, and mental health conditions. Additionally, it consulted members of the LGBTQ+, Traveller, and Roma communities.

Insights from Leading Researchers

The research team was led by Professor Colum Dunne, Head of the School of Medicine, and Professor Gautam Gulati, Adjunct Clinical Professor. Professor Dunne expressed the goal of the study as a desire to gain authentic insights into community safety and policing. He noted, “Our ambition was to base this on real lived experience, and to avoid both assumption and speculation.”

Professor Gulati acknowledged the contributions from various organisations and individuals who shared their experiences, stating, “These insights will help us to understand policing and community safety in Ireland. We hope this research will meaningfully foster ongoing dialogue and inform Irish policing perspectives in the years to come.”

The research involved collaboration with academics from multiple Irish universities and various stakeholders, including the Health Service Executive’s National Social Inclusion Office, Pavee Point, Peter McVerry Trust, and the Irish Penal Reform Trust.

Dr. Andrew Lacey, Superintendent of Henry Street Garda Station in Limerick, remarked on the significance of the report, describing it as “an exemplary example of meaningful research which provides front-line practitioners with contextual learnings and perspectives.” He emphasized the importance of reflecting on improvements that can be made through partnerships and research.

Additionally, Superintendent Lacey stated, “This publication will provide policymakers and practitioners with qualitative data that can be used to inform policy development, improve service provision, and recognise that community safety is a shared responsibility in Ireland.”

Funding for this important research was provided by Research Ireland and the Policing and Community Safety Authority. The findings aim to enhance understanding and foster collaboration among all stakeholders involved in community safety and policing in Ireland.