Urgent Action Needed as Kilkenny Residents Fear Halloween Gangs

UPDATE: Growing fears over anti-social behaviour in Kilkenny have sparked urgent calls for action from local residents and officials. Reports indicate that groups of teenagers are engaging in dangerous activities, including setting off fireworks in residential areas, creating significant alarm ahead of the upcoming Halloween festivities.

Residents in Kilkenny City and Callan have reached their breaking point, with many expressing deep concerns about safety as nightly disturbances escalate. In the Lakeside area, teenagers are reportedly gathering on school properties late into the night, while fireworks are being launched in nearby estates. Locals are pleading with authorities to intervene before the situation spirals further out of control.

One vocal resident, business owner Aisling Doyle, emphasized the community’s frustration, stating that despite repeated appeals for help, no effective measures have been implemented. “We’ve highlighted our concerns countless times, yet nothing changes,” she told Kilkenny Live.

In response to these alarming developments, local councillors have condemned the reckless behaviour. Independent councillor Eugene McGuinness expressed his outrage, stating, “I can see animals running left, right and centre,” while emphasizing the dangerous nature of fireworks being aimed across roads. He cautioned that it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured.

“This will be a disaster across the town this Halloween,” he warned, noting that groups of young people are already organizing large fireworks displays. “It’s going to be a massive explosion here on any of the big weekends.”

Cllr McGuinness described the situation as a “planned assault on communities,” claiming that the thrill of evading consequences is akin to a drug for those involved. He added, “They are actually gangs, and they’re looking forward to all of these festivals now.”

Deputy Mayor Cllr Maria Dollard echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the distress caused to residents and their pets. “This is causing a nuisance and extreme distress to residents. People are anxious and upset in their own homes,” she stated, calling the disruptions “simply not acceptable.”

As Halloween approaches, the community is gripped by anxiety, with residents fearing that the celebrations will bring even more chaos. Officials are calling for immediate intervention to restore safety and peace.

With the clock ticking down to Halloween, the situation in Kilkenny remains tense. Residents are left wondering what measures will be taken to protect their neighborhoods from escalating violence and disturbances.

WHAT’S NEXT: Authorities are urged to step up and take decisive action to address this urgent issue. As Halloween draws near, all eyes will be on Kilkenny to see if effective strategies are implemented to ensure community safety.