Tierney urges vigilance after Derry child finds syringe

The Derry public are being urged to exercise vigilance after a four year old child discovered a syringe and needle in Bloomfield Park in the Galliagh area of the city.

Following the find, SDLP Cllr Brian Tierney said he organised a thorough clean of the area with the council and alerted police..

He added: “Yesterday evening I was contacted by a mother who was distressed after her four year old son had discovered a syringe and needle in a residential area of the city.

“This is clearly a very serious concern for people living in the area, especially those with young children.

“I’ve been in contact with the council and have requested a thorough inspection and clean of the area with road sweepers and litter pickers.

“While we can’t be sure of what was contained in the syringe, either a prescription medication or an illegal drug, this is clearly a public safety concern.

“If anyone comes across items like this they should consider their own safety first and foremost. Hard plastic can be used to contain a syringe before bringing it to a pharmacist for disposal.”

Cllr Tierney concluded: “Our primary concern remains the safety of those living in the Bloomfield park area. We have alerted local police to the discovery and will continue to work with residents to ensure the area remains safe for them and their children.”

Photo shows Cllr Tierney with the syringe which has since been safely disposed.