Donegal Deputy Thomas Pringle has admitted the gangs behind the spate of burglaries across the county will not be caught because of the lack of Gardai on the ground.
The Independent TD said that unless more Gardai are drafted into the villages and towns of Donegal, crime will continue.
He lashed out after another two pensioners were attacked in their own homes in Inishowen last night.
Deputy Pringle said “These criminals have no fear because they know they won’t be caught as things stand. The only answer is to increase Garda presence and prevent any further closures so that a clear message is sent out that this barbaric behaviour will not be tolerated in Donegal, or anywhere else.
“We heard today how Minister Shatter has been assured by the Garda Commissioner that it is an absolute priority‚ to bring the people responsible to justice and that they are devoting all necessary resources to that end. Well if they‚re relying on the resources available in Donegal, they don‚t have much hope.”
There have now been more than 15 burglaries in the past fortnight across thr county.
The attacks have continued unabated since 96 year old Margaret Greta Lilly was attacked and robbed in her home in Buncrana two weeks ago.
He said he has been extremely concerned about this issue for some time because of the lack of Garda presence in rural areas and the further station closures that many are facing and the fear this has caused.
“I highlighted this issue to the Taoiseach in the Dáil late last year, but it obviously feel on deaf ears and we are now seeing the brutal consequences of this government‚s attack on rural Ireland.
“Donegal has already seen cuts to Garda presence which has led to the havoc we are now experiencing and with another 5 stations to close this year I am seriously concerned as to how such incidents will be dealt with, as they appear to be struggling to cope with this spate of vicious burglaries as it is,” he said.
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