Innovative ‘SEE Something SAY Something’ text alert service launched in Longford

An innovative ‘SEE Something SAY Something’ free and confidential text alert service, which will allow residents and visitors to Longford to instantly report incidents to Gardaí was launched at a Crime Prevention EXPO and information event held in Longford.

Operating since November 28, members of the public can report anti-social or suspicious behaviour anonymously and for free by texting LONGFORD to 50555.

Originally developed in County Kerry, the ‘SEE Something SAY Something’ system was listed as an action in the Longford Local Community Safety Partnership and is one of a suite of community engagement responses being delivered by An Garda Síochána and Longford Local Community Safety Partnership.

Community safety is about people feeling safe in their community and connected to An Garda Síochána. ‘SEE Something SAY Something’ is a simple system that will allow people to report anti-social behaviour that is impacting them or their locality confidentially to us.

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While this system does not and should not replace dialling 999 or 112 in the event of an emergency or urgent response it is a tool to allow An Garda Síochána to hear directly from the community and help ensure Longford is a safe place for people to live, work and visit. It is a simple and effective way to report issues that are affecting you and your area.

Members of the public are advised when texting 50555 that they must text LONGFORD first and then should give clear details in the text – such as specific location and the nature of the issue. An Garda Síochána will review the details shared and take an appropriate response based on this.

Speaking at the launch, Superintendent Seamus Boyle said. “Don’t assume someone else will report it, text us what you have seen with the relevant details, for free, to 50555, we want to hear from you.”

Members of Longford Community Safety Partnership launching the SEE something SAY something initiative with members of An Garda Síochána Picture: Shelley Corcoran