Newry Sinn Féin Councillor, Aidan Mathers, has called for a collective effort to tackle rising anti-social behaviour in Newry.
After speaking with affected residents and businesses, Cllr. Mathers said;
“I am deeply concerned by the recent increase in anti-social behaviour within our community and the very real impact it is having on local residents, services and organisations.
“A particularly alarming incident involved a break-in at a local warehouse used to store vital medical equipment. Facilities of this nature play an essential role in supporting healthcare services and vulnerable residents in our area. This criminal activity targeting them is completely unacceptable.
“These actions not only cause financial damage but also risk disrupting access to equipment that people rely upon for their health and wellbeing as well as threatening the very service with the potential of these facilities being moved out of Newry.
“Equally concerning are the repeated attacks on Health Trust buses, with stones being thrown at parked vehicles. This has resulted in broken windows and the vehicles having to be taken off the road for weeks. These reckless acts are not wanted in our areas and serve no purpose. They betray our strong and safe communities. The potential loss of these services has a significant impact on local people, particularly those who depend on Trust vehicles to get to and from day services and hospital appointments.”
Cllr. Mathers concluded;
“The behaviour of a tiny minority is having far-reaching consequences for the wider community. Residents deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities. Local businesses and service providers must be able to operate without fear of intimidation or damage, and public transport should remain accessible to all those who rely upon it.
“I urge anyone with information about those responsible to come forward and report any of this activity to the relevant authorities. Local police must also step up to the mark in countering this activity. Tackling anti-social behaviour requires a collective effort, and our Sinn Féin team remains committed to working with others to ensure our communities remain safe, welcoming and connected for everyone.”
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 