A JUDGE expressed concern for the safety of Claddagh Watch volunteers who are put in danger by the carelessness of those who venture near the city’s waterways in an intoxicated state, and put themselves and others in danger.
Judge Valerie Corcoran said Galway was a city surrounded by water and this made it quite dangerous under some circumstances. She made her comments at Galway District Court when dealing with a defendant who while in a drunken state came to the attention of Claddagh Watch volunteers on patrol on the night of November 2 last.
Claddagh Watch Patrol was founded in 2019 following four tragic water-related deaths in Galway within the space of a single week. Their stated mission is to create a safer environment around Galway city’s waterways through volunteer patrols and awareness. Their aim is to reduce the number of deaths caused, whether through suicide or by accident, on the waters of Galway.
David McDonagh was found in an intoxicated state at Wolfe Tone Bridge on the night. Members of the watch became concerned for his safety and the Gardaí were called to assist. Gardaí arrested the defendant as they considered him a danger to himself and other members of the public.
The Court was told McDonagh is 55 and had a key worker with him and he was engaging with support services to deal with his addiction and accommodation issues.
The Judge said that he had to deal with his alcohol issues as he was putting himself and the members of the Claddagh Watch Patrol in danger by his behaviour. A fine of €200 was imposed.
