Write a commentElectred representatives from Sinn Féin held a meeting today with members of the PSNI regarding criminal incidents in Newry, over the last number of weeks but particularly last night in Stream Street where it's reported that shots were fired. It follows a stabbing in the area earlier this month when a man sustained wounds to his face. It's not known at this stage if the incidents are connected.
Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins commenting after the meeting said "Mickey Brady MP, Cllr Valerie Harte and I, along with CRJ Newry and community representatives, relayed the sheer anger and frustration felt across the city by the community in relation to these events and the urgent need for the PSNI to step up to the plate to deal with this.
"Our communities should not be living in fear and anxiety due to the inaction of relevant statutory bodies to deal with the significant rise of these highly dangerous incidents. Those responsible must be dealt with and the community need to see tangible action if we want there to be any confidence in the police".
The Newry and Armagh MLA continued, "It is not up to community volunteers to deal with this, the police need to protect communities from these reckless thugs who are constantly terrorising areas and undermining the hard work of community associations and other organisations to improve the quality of life for their residents and make their community a good place to live.
"The PSNI took on board the raw emotions demonstrated today and have agreed to "regroup" and review their approaches to put an end to this in conjunction with other statutory agencies.
"The Area Commander, who was in attendance, specifically stated that he will be dedicating this month initially to dealing with the drugs issue in the Newry City area as his priority. Sinn Féin will monitor this situation and continue to support the community and work with them by holding the PSNI and others to account, to make Newry a safe place for everyone."
Speaking about the Stream Street incident Cllr Valerie Harte added. "This is an appalling incident. Thankfully no one was injured in this gun attack but it must have been a frightening experience for those in the area at the time of this reckless and dangerous attack. Anyone with information about this incident should contact the Police."
Cllr Harte added "The local community have been left in fear after the recent rise in serious criminal incidents and attacks. They are entitled to live in peace and feel safe in their homes".
