University of Limerick Reveals Marginalised Voices on Safety

A recent report from the University of Limerick has brought to light the perspectives of marginalised communities in Ireland regarding policing and community safety. The research, titled ‘Hidden Voices, Marginalised Community Perspectives on Policing and Community Safety,’ was led by academics from UL’s School of Medicine and emphasizes the shared responsibility of community safety.

This groundbreaking study is part of a decade-long research initiative and aims to understand how various groups, particularly those most affected by policing practices, experience safety and law enforcement. The report highlights that community safety is not solely in the hands of police forces but is heavily reliant on trust, social cohesion, and community engagement.

Key Findings and Recommendations

Among the findings, the report identifies several critical areas for improvement. It suggests that addressing intergenerational poverty and fostering strong interagency cooperation are essential for enhancing community safety. The researchers found that issues such as mistrust, over-policing, and the stigma surrounding crime reporting contribute to a cycle of vulnerability within these communities.

Specific challenges faced by asylum seekers, refugees, and individuals from ethnic minorities were examined. Additionally, the report included insights from members of the LGBTQ+, Traveller, and Roma communities, noting that these groups often experience unique barriers in their interactions with law enforcement.

The research calls for innovative approaches to community policing, advocating for increased collaboration between An Garda Síochána, health services, and various management agencies. The report also discusses the impacts of racism, misinformation, and the role of social media in shaping community perceptions.

Professor Colum Dunne, Head of UL’s School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of grounding the research in real lived experiences. “Our ambition was to base this on genuine insights and to avoid assumptions,” he stated. “This report is unique and aims to guide future decision-making and policy development.”

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

The research was conducted in collaboration with several Irish universities and external stakeholders, including the Health Service Executive’s National Social Inclusion Office, Pavee Point, Peter McVerry Trust, and the Irish Penal Reform Trust. Professor Gautam Gulati, Adjunct Clinical Professor in UL’s School of Medicine, expressed gratitude towards all organisations involved, noting that their contributions are vital in understanding policing and community safety in Ireland.

Superintendent Andrew Lacey of Henry Street Garda Station in Limerick praised the report as a meaningful resource for front-line practitioners. He stated, “Hidden Voices is an exemplary example of research that provides valuable context. It is crucial to reflect on how we can improve our practices.”

As community safety is recognized as a shared responsibility, this report aims to foster ongoing dialogue among stakeholders and inform future perspectives on policing in Ireland.

Funding for the research was provided by Research Ireland and the Policing and Community Safety Authority, underscoring the commitment to addressing the needs of marginalised voices in public safety discourse. The findings will now serve as a foundation for policy development and enhanced service provision across the country.