On the 21st June 2024, the Private Security Authority (PSA) prosecuted Mr. Jonathan Higgins trading as JMH Automation and J.H.M Automation Limited of Lismullen, Navan, Co. Meath for a breach of the Private Security Services Act. The defendant pleaded guilty at a sitting of Navan District Court in front of Judge Ryan. The judge fined Mr. Higgins €1,000 and awarded costs of €3,964.74 against him.
The prosecution arose from an investigation by the PSA into the installation of an automatic gate at Summerhill, Co. Meath by Mr. Higgins. Contractors installing and maintaining automatic gates must hold a PSA licence to operate. Mr. Higgins was not in possession of a PSA licence.
Speaking following the prosecution, the PSA’s Chief Executive, Paul Scallan, said “I hope today’s prosecution of an unlicensed automatic gates installer will raise people’s awareness of the need to use a PSA licensed installer. Powered gates are machines which if not properly installed and maintained can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities. These gates are often located in homes and other places where children and vulnerable people are present. Using unlicensed installers may be putting people at risk.”
He went on to say “People should always look for the PSA licence of any contractor who installs gates or other security systems such as CCTV and intruder alarms. PSA contractors are licensed professional who have been Garda vetted and meet industry standards.”