TWO vandalised bus shelters highlight the need to tackle criminal damage in Guernsey. The shelter opposite Victoria Avenue and the one at Grandes Rocques are just two examples of the type of crime the newly-launched Respect Guernsey campaign is aimed at discouraging.
‘A campaign like this is long overdue. Vandalism has always been around, but trying to educate people to have a different mindset is an important step,’ said Castel senior constable Chris Workman.
‘Damaging these bus shelters is extremely annoying for the whole parish. We would like to see more go up and we are looking to put in an application for that, but if they are getting damaged the States isn’t likely to shell out any money for more.’
Criminal damage, which includes vandalism, minor arson and graffiti, makes up 30% of all crime in the island.
Respect Guernsey was set up by the Crime Prevention Panel to encourage respect in the community and respect of other people’s property, in a bid to curb this type of offence.
Home minister Geoff Mahy said it was important for every single resident to take responsibility for their actions.
‘Everybody should take ownership of their island and keep it as nice as possible. This sort of thing is a blight on our community, and everyone can help to stop it,’ he said.
Article posted on 24th January, 2008 - 12.00am
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