My son, a resident of Parkside, Balgriffin, Dublin, has been left with lasting injuries from a vicious gang assault in Parkside Square on 3 September 2023. 

This incident is not an isolated one, but rather a reflection of the rising crime rates that are making our community increasingly unsafe. According to the Central Statistics Office Ireland, there was a 17% increase in assaults leading to harm and attempts/threats to murder across Ireland in 2019 (Central Statistics Office Ireland). This is an alarming trend that we cannot ignore. We cannot turn a blind eye to the safety and well-being of our fellow residents.

While I commend the efforts of the Gardai in investigating such offences, there seems to be a glaring lack of accountability for the attackers within the law.

In our personal circumstance:
- our son has been left with lasting injuries as a result of the attack
- the attackers have been clearly ID'd on CCTV, and interviewed by the Gardai
- the solicitor for the attackers has advised them to only say "no comment" (NOTE: their solicitors legal fees are being paid for by the tax payer)

- the attackers have gone unpunished and undeterred, and can commit the same crime to another innocent victim

This situation is simply unacceptable. It sends a message that those responsible for violent acts can evade justice and continue to pose a threat to innocent individuals. We must ask ourselves, what kind of society are we building if we allow such injustices to persist? How can we have faith in the systems we support through our taxes if they fail to make our communities safe for our children?

Our community deserves justice. We must urge our local law enforcement and judicial system to take immediate and decisive action against these criminals. It is essential that thorough investigations are conducted, evidence is meticulously examined, and the perpetrators are held accountable for their violent actions.

To make our voices heard and demand justice, I have initiated a petition that calls for a comprehensive response to the rising crime rates in Balgriffin, Dublin. By signing this petition, you are joining a united community in saying "no" to violence and demanding that all victims of assault receive the justice they deserve.

Together, let us stand strong and make our streets safer for everyone.

Sign this petition today and send a powerful message that we will not tolerate a society where criminals roam free and innocent lives are shattered.

Kind Regards,
a concerned citizen and a parent