Anti-social behaviour ‘putting parents off play park’

A CRUMLIN councillor has condemned anti social behaviour at the village’s Play Park.

Annemarie Logue, Chairman of the District Policing Partnership, described the incidents as ‘unacceptable’ and said on one recent Saturday afternoon a car was vandalised in broad daylight at a nearby car park.

Ms Logue said: “These vandals are responsible for destroying and burning play equipment as well as bullying and criminal activities. The vandalism and anti-community behaviour is being attributed to a small minority of 11-14 year old youths.

“They are harassing local people who accompany their children to the Park as well as bullying younger children. This is unacceptable and I am calling on them to desist.”

She said it had reached the point where many parents are reluctant to use the park facilities.

“The environs of the Park resemble a rubbish tip following weekend under age drinking parties, with bottles, beer cans and even drug paraphernalia littering the play area” she said.

“The play park and local facilities are for everyone and must be treated with respect.

Ms Logue also condemned a smash and grab incident at the nearby community centre car park.

“The car had its windows smashed and the contents of the car ransacked” she said. “I am calling for the resources to be made available to monitor the situation and to make the park the safe environment it once was.”