BEGGARS IN BRAY are being dropped to the town early in the morning by organised groups, according to Cathaoirleach of the Town Council, John Ryan.

He said that they are then being collected in the evening after spending the day begging. ' We do not know who these people are, we do not know where the money collected goes and that is a worry. I am asking the people of Bray to please only support registered charities who have applied to collect through the Garda station and who have an official permit for the purpose.'

The law as

it currently stands allows any person to make a living from begging so gardaí cannot act. 'The law has been repealed so we can't take action unless someone is causing a public nuisance,' said Superintendent Michael Lernihan.

'This is bad news for retailers and for the shopping experience of customers in Bray,' said Cllr. Ryan. 'I do encourage people to give to registered charities so that you know that your money is being directed to the people who need it most. I want these organised groups of people without permits to leave Bray because the people here won't give them money.

'This unfortunately seems to be the only way to deal with the problem.'

- Mary FOGARTY