Community representative says there is a “genuine fear” on both sides

A COMMUNITY representative from the Killowen area has told The Times that there is a “genuine fear” within the Heights and Killowen communities.

Speaking to us on Friday, the representative, who did not wish to be named, said he was pleased with the turn out at Thursday night’s protest.

He said that the community has a plan in place to take things further if they have to.

“This is not a get at the police issue.

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“We understand that police are stretched, but there are things happening in this area day and daily that should not be.

“The protest was genuinely a community inspired event.

“By no means was it 50/50 but there were quite a few members of the Catholic community there.

“There is a fear factor amongst Catholic residents, and I can understand that, but they have come along to meetings and told of their fears - this is an issue that is affecting the whole community.”

The community representative went on: “This is not a flags issue, as many are claiming it is.

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“If the flags in the area were to come down the problems would still remain.

“The Policing Plan for the Coleraine area clearly talks about reducing crime and the fear of crime, and that certainly isn’t happening in the Killowen and Heights area.

“We have a plan in place but we are waiting to see what the outcome of Thursday’s event will be.”

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