Suspicious approach to a child reported

A suspicious approach to an 11-year-old child at a car park close to the local national school in Ratoath has been reported to Gardai.

Local councillor Yvonne Everard has warned parents to be vigilant in the wake of the approach which happened yesterday after school shortly after 3pm.

She outlined that she has been made aware of an incident where an 11-year-old child was asked by a man standing at a black car did they want to go to the shop for sweets telling the child he would drop them home after. It is understood the child did not engage with the man and hurried home.

Cllr Everard said the incident has been reported to Gardai who said they would carry out patrols in the area and would see if any CCTV is available. She added that the school had been made aware of the incident and that she would be contacting the community gardai to come and give a talk to the schoolchildren.

It is understood the child was approached at a car park on the Fairyhouse Road, in close proximity to the school that is frequently used by parents while dropping off and collecting their children.

The man is described as being tall and was wearing a baseball cap. There is no better description available for the car other than it was black.

Gardai have confirmed that the incident has been reported and is being investigated. Anyone would information should contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01-8010600.