An Athlone Councillor is calling for the introduction of a bylaw to prohibit organised begging on local streets.
John Dolan believes the issue is becoming more prevalent and Gardai should have the discretion to stop the offence where they feel it’s organised.
The Fine Gael representative claims some members of the public are being approached in public car parks and feel intimidated.
Speaking to Shannonside FM Councillor Dolan says he will be renewing his call for bylaws at the next JPC meeting.
' I would absolutely be in support of helping anyone finically who needs to be begging. What we are seeing on the streets of Athlone seems to be an organised begging where they are dropped off in the morning and picked up in the evening. We are going to write to the local Superintendent within the Gardaí and bring it up at the next JPC meeting. '
