Parents in Derry have a major role to play in the fight against underage drinking, drug taking and anti-social behaviour in the city, a local councillor has said.
The SDLP's Angela Dobbins has called on parents “to intervene” following reports of such activities taking place in the Sandale and Ballyarnett areas.
She said parents must, “in no uncertain terms,” make clear to their children the distress they were causing to the residents of these areas, especially the elderly and more vulnerable.
She added: “I have continually highlighted this issue as a parent, resident in the area and as a public representative.
“Parents need to take control before someone gets seriously injured or worse.
“They should know where their children are and what they are up to.
“At the beginning of this month plans were passed for a new play park at Ballyarnett Country Park.
“The plans include the provision of a play area, path, lighting of paths, and a small hub building.
“These plans were long overdue and is only one of the many major projects earmarked for the Ballyarnett district area.
“The PSNI have acknowledged the issue and confirmed that they will increase their patrols of the area this weekend.”
Cllr Dobbins concluded: “If parents don’t step up to the mark on this anti social behaviour, these young people will end up with a criminal record that could scupper their chances of future education, employment and travel.”
Photo shows areas used for underage drinking and drug-taking in the Ballyarnett area.
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