Deadline for Text Alert Rebate Scheme nears

On the 22^nd Sept 2016 at the Ploughing Championships, the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, has announced a major new incentive for group Text Alert networks. The new Text Alert Rebate Scheme, which will be administered by Muintir na Tíre, will provide increased funding for all eligible Text Alert Groups.

Speaking at the Muintir na Tire / Community Alert stand, when she visited the National Ploughing Championships, Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald said that the funding for the Community Alert programme now incorporates a new €100,000 rebate scheme for local groups registered under the Garda Text Alert Scheme.

Muintir na Tíre CEO, Niall Garvey, welcomed the announcement saying it was the culmination of intensive lobbying by Muintir na Tíre. He said “Text Alert has been a phenomenal success in preventing crime. Muintir na Tíre, in partnership with an Garda Síochána, has rolled this programme out to almost 1,000 local community groups, mainly Community Alert groups.”

He added “Until now, the groups have been responsible for their own costs and have accepted this as a means to reduce crime in their areas. However, this new scheme recognises those efforts and costs, and will go some way towards reducing the burden on local residents.”

Under the scheme, eligible groups will receive a rebate of at least €100 towards their operating costs. Groups can apply by completing a simple application form available at www.muintir.ie/Text-Alert-Rebates or by contacting Muintir na Tíre Community Alert Development officers, before 31 October next. This scheme will be fast-tracked with payments made before the end of the year. It will then be reviewed in early 2017.

In conclusion Mr Garvey said “Community Alert, and Text Alert, represent the most positive way communities can prevent crime and increase safety in their areas. Since it was launched at the Ploughing Championships three years ago, Text Alert has developed incredibly to involve over 164,000 subscribers with an estimated 3 million text messages sent in the last year.” He said “we look forward to continuing this positive partnership with an Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice and Equality.” Niall Garvey, CEO, Muintir na Tíre (086) 2460136 / ngarvey@muintir.ie

For any assistance contact your Community Alert Development Officer.

Diarmuid Cronin

021 – 733 9011.

086 – 856 7770.

086 – 600 0753.