Westmeath Local Community Safety Partnership Holds Inaugural Meeting
The Westmeath Local Community Safety Partnership (WLCSP) held its first meeting on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, marking an important step forward in implementing the Policing, Security & Community Safety Act 2024.
The WLCSP introduces a fresh, partnership-based approach to community safety, succeeding the former Joint Policing Committees. This new model unites elected representatives, statutory agencies, and community stakeholders to create locally-focused strategies that promote safety and wellbeing throughout County Westmeath.
The inaugural meeting achieved several significant milestones. Ms Geraldine Lacey was elected Chairperson, with Cllr Denis Leonard appointed as Vice-Chairperson. Members agreed to formally adopt Terms of Reference and Standing Orders at their next meeting in January 2026.
Preliminary discussions took place regarding the development of the Westmeath Community Safety Plan (2026–2028), including plans for a comprehensive community consultation process. The Partnership also scheduled six meetings for 2026, including a public meeting in September.
LCSP Coordinator Brigid Geoghegan opened proceedings by welcoming members and outlining the Partnership's role in fostering community participation and empowerment.
A video message from Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O'Callaghan TD, was played to mark the occasion. The Minister said: "This marks another significant step in rolling out these partnerships nationwide. Bringing together local representatives, community groups, and state agencies allows each partnership to identify and address safety needs in their own area."
Newly elected Chairperson Geraldine Lacey commented: "I am honoured to serve as Chairperson of the Westmeath Local Community Safety Partnership. I look forward to working collaboratively with residents, community organisations, and statutory agencies to strengthen safety, build trust, and ensure every voice is heard."
Closing the meeting, Barry Kehoe, Chief Executive of Westmeath County Council, stated: "The establishment of this Partnership represents a genuine opportunity to place community voices at the heart of how we approach safety in Westmeath. By working together across agencies and with our communities, we can build a safer, more connected county where people feel secure and supported. Westmeath County Council is fully committed to the success of this Partnership and to delivering meaningful outcomes for all our residents."
The WLCSP will now focus on developing its Community Safety Plan, with support from the National Office for Community Safety. A subcommittee has been established to develop a framework for the design and drafting of the Plan, along with the associated consultation methodology.
Minutes of the meeting will be published within two weeks on www.westmeathcoco.ie.
Westmeath Local Community Safety Partnership
Email: lcsp@westmeathcoco.ie
Westmeath Local Community Safety Partnership (WLCSP) inaugural meeting photo Newly elected WLCSP Chairperson, Ms Geraldine Lacey being congratulated by the Chief Executive of Westmeath County Council, Mr. Barry Kehoe.
The newly appointed Westmeath Local Community Safety Partnership members and supporting staff
Content Last Updated/Reviewed: 02/12/2025
