Cross-Border Partnerships Strengthen Regional Approach to Community Safety

On Wednesday, 24 June 2026, the Louth Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) and the Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) hosted a joint meeting at the Carrickdale Hotel, bringing together key stakeholders from across the region to strengthen collaboration on community safety.

The meeting aimed to develop a coordinated regional approach to community safety and to identify ways in which agencies and communities can work more effectively together across jurisdictions. Discussions also focused on the unique challenges faced by border counties in addressing issues such as anti-social behaviour, rural crime, and community cohesion.

Nasir Yasin, Chairperson of the Louth LCSP highlighted the importance of sustained cross-border cooperation:

“Community safety does not stop at administrative boundaries. This workshop marks an important step in reinforcing our shared commitment to working collaboratively with our cross-border colleagues, communities, and statutory agencies to ensure safer, more resilient communities for all. By pooling our knowledge and resources, we can respond more effectively to the challenges unique to border regions.”

Speaking at the event, Michelle Osborne, Vice Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP, emphasised the value of partnership-led, community-focused approaches:

“Partnership working is at the heart of effective community safety delivery. Events like this provide an invaluable platform to share insights, strengthen relationships, and identify practical solutions to issues affecting communities on both sides of the border. By listening to local voices and working collectively, we can build safer, more confident communities and ensure that our approaches are both inclusive and responsive to local need.”

The workshop featured contributions from a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP; Newry, Mourne and Down District Council; Louth LCSP; Louth County Council; the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI); An Garda Síochána; and Cooley Peninsula Community Alert.

Following the presentations, participants took part in focus group sessions, which explored both the challenges and opportunities for enhanced cross-border cooperation. Key themes included information sharing, joint problem-solving, prevention initiatives, and the role of community engagement in improving safety outcomes.

The event marks a significant step towards strengthening regional collaboration and ensuring a more coordinated, effective response to community safety across the border region.

For further information on community safety contact Louth Local Community Safety Partnership at communitysafety@louthcoco.ie or follow Louth County Council on social media for update on upcoming events and initiatives.

WHAT IS THE LOCAL COMMUNITY SAFETY PARTNERSHIP?

Under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024, Local Community Safety Partnerships have been established in every local authority area across Ireland to replace and greatly expand upon the work previously carried out by Joint Policing Committees. Under national guidance, the LCSP is responsible for:

Providing a forum for discussion on community safety issues
Leading a three-year Local Community Safety Plan, shaped through public consultation
Bringing agencies together for preventative and early-intervention responses
Hosting public meetings and ensuring strong community participation
Reporting annually to the National Office for Community Safety