Cllr Kelly said: "The issue of crime and vandalism in Wexford is extremely serious. This issue should be treated with some urgency and needs some clear and serious thought applied by all local politicians, the Gardai, and all in a position of influence. What is not required are knee jerk reactions.

"We need to examine, among other things, the lack of a policing presence on Wexfords streets. We also need a serious multi-level approach to tackling the increasing drink and drugs problem in Wexford. Also as a community we need to be providing activities and facilities for young people. The complete lack of community facilities for young people in Wexford is appalling. There are absolutely no facilities for young people at night time in this town.

"While I fully appreciate the concerns of the business community in Wexford, placing steel shutters on all shop fronts in Wexford town is certainly not going to solve the issue of crime and vandalism. That is simply a reaction to crime, not a pro-active measure."