Opinion

Residents require support to combat lawlessness

THERE is no doubt that some areas of Belfast, and other cities, have serious problems as illustrated by the incidence of assaults and general disorder, giving the impression that gangs of young people can roam streets with impunity as they engage in various forms of anti-social behaviour.

It is unfair to label entire communities as lawless when there are in fact many individuals and organisations who are attempting to make the areas in which they live as pleasant as they possibly can.

These people and groups are active in many different ways. Some provide youth centres, others directly interact with these groups of young people on the ground, talking to them and attempting to steer them away from potential problems such as drug and alcohol abuse.

That is not to put a gloss on the situation. Recent stories in The Irish News have included quotes from people in the Falls Road area that some gangs are making residents prisoners in their own homes, and of course there was the murder of Christopher Meli in the Twinbrook area a few weeks ago.

However, without the work of residents who are prepared to seek solutions to the social problems their communities face, the situation would undoubtedly be much worse. Their efforts are invaluable.

It is essential that their work is recognised and more importantly supported by the authorities both in action and word. It would be sheer folly to expect the police and other agencies to tackle these problems without the support of communities as represented by politicians and community groups.

As we go into 2016 it is important that an overall strategy is developed with the aim of ending the street violence and lawlessness which can leave many people feeling abandoned and powerless, unable to live normal peaceful lives.

That strategy should reinforce existing links between the police and other agencies with residents groups, political representatives and all who are attempting to make their areas better places to live.