Hi
I have never heard that and have several family members who live there.
Your friend should ring or call into the local Garda station and address such serious concerns. That will put his mind at ease once and for all without wasting time on rumour, which is just what i'd say this more then likely is..
I'd defo recommend it. It is on the N11 bus corridor, has a massive park, the 24hr Dunnes Stores, good access to jobs locally via industrial estates, driving distance to the coast, on the m50, luas coming next year..the estate called 'The Park' in Cabinteely is well located.
Hope that helps.