Derry SDLP councillor Shauna Cusack dismayed over Facebook leak on crackdown on drivers
A DERRY councillor says it is “disappointing” that details of a surprise police operation in Derry to combat dangerous driving were posted on Facebook.
The SDLP’s Shauna Cusack said the operation, targeting late-night drivers gathering in car parks at Strand Road, had been scheduled for the “coming weeks”.
But she said that was now under review after Sinn Fein councillor Michael Cooper shared details of the “surprise operation” with local residents.
“I was extremely surprised and frustrated to learn that this operation, which had been advanced by a number of individuals including myself since last year is now, according to the PSNI, ‘under review’.
“The operation was to see traffic police and DVA work hand in hand at irregular hours to combat dangerous drivers and dangerous vehicles in the Strand Road area in the coming weeks.
“This decision to re-evaluate the project was made in light of the details having been made public by Cllr Cooper who circulated the information via a leaflet to locals and requesting it be kept confidential.
“A similar statement was also released to the media after a request to his party press office to withdraw it.
“Not surprisingly, this leaflet was handed to one of the car park users and was immediately uploaded onto their Facebook page as a warning. As a result of this short sighted publicity stunt, months and months of work and persuasion are now in jeopardy as the other agencies have decided to review the investment of resources versus potential success of objectives.
“To say I’m dismayed is an understatement, however the real disappointment will be felt most not only by the officials, who committed time and effort to get to this stage, but more importantly the residents who worked with us to keep the spotlight on this hotspot.
“Needless to say I will continue working with the campaign stakeholders and the community to get this issue the focus it deserves,” added Cllr Cusack.
But Mr Cooper said he fully expected the joint PSNI and Driver and Vehicle Agency operation to go ahead.
He added: “A date has yet to be finalised.”