Cross-border police operations on the Old Dublin Road at Carrickcarnan have been intensified in a bid to shut down gatherings of drivers that local residents say have caused disruption for more than a decade.

Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins, speaking after a meeting with senior PSNI and An Garda Síochána officers, said the community in Killean and Edentubber wants the late-night car meets and associated reckless driving to stop. The gatherings, which she said have been taking place for over 10 years, block the road, endanger other road users, and cause disturbance for businesses and residents.

Kimmins welcomed the visible cooperative work between the two police forces and called for the approach to be maintained and strengthened. She noted that Sinn Féin has been working with local people, businesses, and police on both sides of the border for many years to address the problem.

Also present at the meeting were Newry and Armagh MP Dáire Hughes, Louth TD Ruairí O’Murchú, and councillors Cathal King and Antoin Watters.

Physical measures to make the road less attractive for dangerous driving are under consideration. Officials from Louth County Council and Northern Ireland’s Department for Infrastructure are examining options to improve road safety on the Old Dublin Road.

Kimmins said the community’s message is clear and that her party colleagues will continue to push for a permanent solution.