Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow and the party's candidate in the 2011 Scottish Parliament elections for the city's new Maryhill and Springburn constituency, addressed a public meeting (Monday 29th)  in Possilpark about new police powers to tackle anti social behaviour in the area. The meeting was organised by Strathclyde Police and was an opportunity for members of the public to find out more about the new dispersal powers commencing on the 14th of December. Mr Doris gave his support to a new dispersal zone, which will run for a minimum of 3 months, and is aimed at tackling long standing problems with anti social behaviour.

The dispersal zone has been 'signed off' by Superintendent Eddie Smith, using anti-social behaviour powers available to him. The powers will enable police officers to break up groups of two or more people who have gathered and can be reasonably thought to be likely to cause alarm or distress to the community.

If such groups congregate within specific time periods as set out within the dispersal order, police will disperse those gathered and arrest those that refuse. It is hoped that the additional powers will tackle a range of low-level and persistent anti-social behaviour that has plagued the community for generations.

Speaking after the public meeting, Bob Doris MSP said: "Across Scotland, including Glasgow, crime is at a 32-year low and there are record numbers of police on our streets. However, some communities, such as those in Possilpark, have still to feel the benefit. For generations, crime and anti-social behaviour have blighted this area even though the majority of locals are proud, decent and law-abiding individuals.

"However, a high-profile minority, fuelled by drugs and cheap alcohol, and often working on behalf of organised criminals, have never been dealt with appropriately over the years.

"I therefore welcome the additional powers open to the police, and the additional police resources, including additional police officers, that will accompany this initiative. However, initiatives come and go, and we need sustainable work across both the police and partner agencies such as housing associations and youth services to continue long after the dispersal order lapses.

"This is a real opportunity to break the generations-spanning cycle of crime in Possil, but the Council and Strathclyde Police must commit additional resources on an ongoing basis, not just during the dispersal period. We must also ensure that any criminal activity that is prevented is not simply displaced elsewhere.

"I endorse the aims of this initiative, but will be monitoring its effects closely, not just during the Dispersal Order period, but also in terms of the provision of ongoing support by the police and local authority afterwards".

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