Residents of Ardshanavooley and members of An Garda Síochána gathered at the Killarney Pastoral Centre on Rock Road recently for a community information evening to launch a new Community Text Alerts initiative.

The event focused on encouraging local people to get involved in making their area a safer place to live, work and visit.

The programme aims to strengthen links between residents and Gardaí by sharing important safety information and alerts quickly within the community.

During the evening, attendees heard practical advice on crime prevention, including home security, protecting vehicles and property, and raising awareness around scams and fraud.

Information was also provided on how the programme works, the benefits for residents, and the importance of neighbours working together.

Attendees were given the opportunity to register their interest, sign up to the system and volunteer for future community safety initiatives.

Cllr Martin Grady welcomed the new programme and said he was delighted to see it being rolled out, with hopes that it will now expand to other areas.

"The initiative would be particularly beneficial for those who are not active on social media, ensuring that nobody is left out when important community information is being shared," Cllr Grady said.