As a Peace Commissioner in Bray, David has played an active role in relation to a number of key policy areas relating to law and order in the town.
David was also re-elected as Chairman of the Bray Joint Policing Committee. The Committee comprises of local Councillors, Dail Deputies, Council Officials, Community Representatives and An Garda Siochana. The purpose of the Committee is to achieve a partnership approach to policing in the town.
Having served as Chairman from 2007 to 2009 and Vice Chairman from 2005 to 2007, David will now serve the full term of the Council on this occasion.
At the first meeting of the committee David stated that he is keen to develop a policy in relation to safety and security for the night-time economy. This is a major element of life in Bray and it is important for all who partake in it, customers, residents and operators that there is a good policy in force that will protect everyone and make sure that nights out are an enjoyable experience for all.
A new initiative is also to have the meetings of the committee held throughout the town, with the next meeting taking place in Ballywaltrim, after that in Little Bray and later in the year in the Town Centre and finally around the Seafront area. This is to encourage local communities to become involved in the process and use the fact that the meeting will be taking place in their area to ask the committee to raise issues particular to their area.
As a former member of the Bray Drugs Task Force, David sees the approach to tackling the local drugs issue as a tripartite solution. Firstly, there is a need to encourage young people not to become involved in any way with those involved with the sale or supply of substances that can harm their health. By providing alternative activities for young people and youth projects that focus on diversion, the number of young people that may become involved in drug misuse will be reduced.
Secondly, information relating to the sale and supply of illegal substances must be provided to the Gardai and from there serious action must be taken against those involved in this parasitic trade. The full rigours of the law must be applied and serious sentences imposed to deter others from getting involved at this level.
Finally, for those who have become users of drugs or other substances there must be support for them, their families and communities to deal with their addiction and ‘kick the habit.’