Chairperson Condemns Vandalism of Kilkeel Public Toilets

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Roisin Mulgrew, was disappointed to learn of the recent vandalism of public amenities in Kilkeel at approximately 9.30pm on Saturday 24 March.

Councillor Mulgrew said, “The damage and destruction which has been targeted at this essential public facility in Kilkeel is unacceptable.  The public toilets and events space was broken into and furniture and vital resources were destroyed.  Despite the Council immediately taking measures to secure the property, vandals revisited the facility on two more occasions and carried out additional damage and mutilation of a toilet cubicle, which will not be reopened until it is thoroughly cleansed.”

She continued, “Public facilities offer essential services to communities and those that visit here and these culprits have shown a lack of respect and care towards both. We hope through positive partnership working, we eliminate such incidences for the benefit of all.”

The PSNI attended the scene and is currently carrying out an investigation. 

Inspector Nigel Henry said, “It was reported that a door had been forced at a store adjacent to a toilet block in the Square and its contents thrown in the river.  Police attended and spoke with staff who were securing the building.

“It is disappointing to see an incident like this at a facility that is used by everyone in the local community. This can create a negative perception in an area where there has been a significant multi-agency effort to reduce levels of anti-social behaviour.  We are working tirelessly in the area with local Councillors, schools and community groups, the PCSP, the Kilkeel Development Association and local businesses. The area is also patrolled by PCSP community wardens.

“We have held a number of events and have others planned - with the aim of bringing young people together and giving them a sense of pride in their local area.  While the majority of people have embraced the positivity of such an initiative, there is a small percentage who want to cause vandalism and disruption to the community.

“We would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident or has any information about it to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1413 of 24/3/18.

“Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”