Derry Sinn Fein councillor Eric McGinley
SINN Féin Councillor Eric Mc Ginley has called on parents to ensure they know the whereabouts of their children at night time following a number of incidents in the Ballymagroarty area over the past few weeks.
Councillor McGinley said: “Residents I have spoken to have said that young people from various parts of the city have congregated in the area over the past few weeks.
“It must be pointed out that although the vast majority of these kids are not causing any problems there are however a small minority causing problems for local residents.
“I have discussed the matter with youth workers over the past number of weeks.
“And I have also spoken to the youth workers this morning and they have made me aware that some young people from the area have been in contact with them to discuss the possibility of engaging in activities which the local youth providers have on offer.
“This approach has to be welcomed and i would appeal to other young people to take the same approach by taking the opportunity to engage in positive activities that the local community have on offer.
“Community Restorative Justice have also spoken to residents affected and have agreed to put a number of home safety measures in place for some of those affected to try and ensure there is no repeat in the future.
“The youth workers will be on the streets at night time over the next few weeks should any of the young people wish to talk to them.
“I have also been in contact with the PSNI and the Community Safety Wardens who have assured me that they will be focusing their resources in the area,” added Cllr McGinley.
