The author of a radical report aimed at tackling crime in some of Limerick's worst-hit areas has described as "appalling" the vicious gangland killing of Noel Campion on a busy city street.
John Fitzgerald was in Limerick yesterday to speak at a seminar designed to explore ways in which sport can help unite local communities and improve the quality of life.
The former Dublin city manager was appointed last year to head up a new Government taskforce aimed at tackling problems of crime, disorder and social exclusion in certain parts of Limerick.
Among the key recommendations contained in his report were the appointment of 100 additional gardaí and the demolition of 1,000 houses as part of a major rebuilding project.
Speaking yesterday about Limerick's latest gangland murder, Mr Fitzgerald said it was "shocking".
"Obviously it's appalling and shocking and it's a serious problem at the moment for the city and for the image of the city," he said.
Gardaí are also investigating a separate shooting early yesterday morning at Delmege Park, Moyross, in which a teenager was injured. The 16-year-old boy suffered pellet wounds in the attack.
Meanwhile, security will be high in Limerick city this weekend for the removal of Noel Campion, which will take place at 6.30pm on Sunday from Cross's funeral home to Corpus Christi Church in Moyross.
Funeral Mass will take place at 11am on Monday, with burial afterwards in Mount St Oliver cemetery.