Arson attack a ‘major setback’ for Leafair community relations: Tierney

An arson attack in an area of Derry which had been plagued by anti-social behaviour in recent months is a “major setback” for community relations in the area, SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney has said.

A fire at a shed at the back of a home at Leafair Gardens (pictured) in the Galliagh area in the early hours of this morning is being treated as deliberate.

Cllr Tierney said he was “shocked” to hear about the incident in the area where, he said, community relations had improved over the last number of weeks.

He added: “A huge amount of work has taken place over the last number of weeks to defuse tensions in this area.

“Residents were beginning to get peace of mind that the anti-social behaviour which plagued their lives was coming to an end.

“That’s why we’ve had security gates installed and worked with the Housing Executive to clear an area to develop community allotments.

“This attack is a major setback and residents are now worried that their lives will once again be subject to aggressive anti-social behaviour. I will continue to work with local people and with the relevant agencies to prevent that happening.”

Cllr Tierney concluded: “I would encourage anyone with any information about this disgraceful attack to get in touch with the police as soon as possible.”