Troy ‘disgusted’ at charity shop break-in
Published on: 19 September 2012
Longford-Westmeath Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy has said he is shocked and upset by the break in at the Saint Vincent De Paul charity shop in Mullingar last night.
The thieves broke into the shop on Gate Street in the town and stole money and a number of items.
“It is extremely upsetting that criminals would stoop so low as to target a not-for-profit charity in this way,” said Deputy Troy.
“Charities like Saint Vincent de Paul are under enormous pressure at this time to cope with a surge in demand for their services at a time when their funding has been cut. The staff at the Saint Vincent de Paul in Mullingar provide go above and beyond the call of duty to provide an invaluable service to people in need in this region. The last thing they deserve is to be targeted by criminals.
“There has been a huge increase in burglaries in Westmeath and across the Midlands over the past year. This latest incident at a charity shop is further proof that the Government’s policy of cutting funding for local garda stations is a mistake. We need a strong garda presence in this area to deter criminals from targeting local households and businesses.
“My thoughts are with the staff at the Saint Vincent de Paul on Gate Street at what must be a difficult time for them. I am hopeful that the local gardaí will do everything in their power to catch those responsible. Anyone who steals from a charity must be brought to justice.”