Incidents of damage and aggression were reported in respect of Tipperary town overnight on local social media – drawing condemnation from members of the community. Tipperary Fire Service and local Garda have been contacted for comment but the local Fire Service is understood to have had a difficult night as it came under attack responding to a call out.
Bonfires were lit in James Connolly Park and there are also reports of a roadway being blocked after furniture was set alight. A local pharmacist traveling home after 9.30pm reports that her car window was smashed by an object thrown at the car. The victim posted details on their business page sharing that “the sound of the bang was unreal” and says the culprits hid in bushes throwing rocks and anything else they could find. The victim added that the parents and those standing by watching the incident will expect the pharmacy to be available to meet their needs as normal this morning. The driver is extending thanks to two ladies who offered assistance after the window was smashed.
There are unconfirmed reports that upwards of 10 drivers reported damage to their vehicles to Tipperary town Garda Station including a young woman whose passenger window was smashed by a rock – leaving her with no vehicle until repairs are completed. The woman is said to be shaken by the incident but was not injured.
Residents in the town posted comments that “parents and Gardaí need to come together to stamp out this behaviour including the broader community” with calls also made for “a public meeting to be held to address anti-social behaviour.” As of 7.15am on Friday, bangers and fireworks were still being discharged in parts of the town as the bonfires smolder.
Residents in Dundrum also report incidents of damage to cars and rocks being thrown and claim that Garda failed to attend the scene.
Councillor Anne Marie Ryan says the incidents reported are unacceptable and says given similar incidents last year there should have been a strong Garda presence last night that could deliver an escalated response. The Councillor adds that there are many decent residents in James Connolly Park that do not deserve behaviour such as last night and wants a proper management plan to be put in place for next Halloween. The Sinn Fein Councillor adds that parents of those involved must also take some responsibility and that the Council should act to prevent bonfire material being stored in the area in advance of Halloween.Organised Halloween events in Cashel, Thurles and Clonmel all reported good attendances as the good weather gave the crowds a chance to enjoy the events including Screamland in Cashel, a Licenced Firework display in Thurles and a Zombie Walk in Clonmel.
