There was a huge outpouring of solidarity and support in Cappoquin on Friday evening as several hundred people gathered for a candlelight vigil in response to last week’s serious assault in the town.
The event saw residents from across West Waterford come together in unity.
Conor McGuinness TD, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, said the turnout reflected the best of the community’s spirit and a clear demand for change.
Deputy McGuinness said:
“What we saw in Cappoquin on Friday evening was the strength of a community standing together — neighbours, friends, and families united by compassion and courage. People here are determined to make their voices heard. The Government must now listen.
“For too long, successive governments have ignored the needs of rural communities and towns like Cappoquin. Garda numbers have fallen, stations have closed, and resources have been stretched to breaking point. This has created a situation where people no longer feel safe in their own communities. That cannot continue.
“It is time for action — not words. The Government must end the neglect of rural Ireland, reopen local Garda stations, and ensure adequate Garda numbers, visibility, and responsiveness across County Waterford. Communities like Cappoquin, Lismore, Tallow and Villierstown deserve no less.
“My thoughts and support are with the person seriously injured in Cappoquin last week, and with their family at this very difficult time. I also want to extend my solidarity to the Gardaí in Dungarvan following the recent unrelated attacks on members of the force. Our frontline Gardaí do incredibly difficult work under immense pressure. They deserve to be backed up with adequate recruitment and resourcing — a message that has yet to land with Government.”
Meanwhile, Cllr Donnchadh Mulcahy said the turnout sent a strong and hopeful message that the people of West Waterford will not be forgotten or ignored.
“Friday night showed the very best of our community. The people of Cappoquin and West Waterford came together with strength, dignity and unity — to say clearly that enough is enough. We are proud of our community, and we will not allow fear or violence to define it.
“For too long, West Waterford has been overlooked and under-resourced. People feel forgotten. They see Garda numbers drop, they see less visibility, slower response times, and they worry for their safety and for their children. That has to change.
“The Government must listen to the people of West Waterford. We need a permanent Garda presence, proper resources for rural policing, and a plan that gives reassurance and protection to our towns and villages. The message from Cappoquin is clear — our community stands together, and we are demanding action.”
The vigil, opened by local man Martin Reddy, concluded with a moment of silence followed by the lighting of candles across the town centre.
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