Concern over heroin use close to walkway
THE USE OF heroin close to a popular walkway in Athlone which is frequented by people of all ages is a major cause of concern in the locality.
That's according to a local teacher who spotted various drugs paraphernalia including used syringes and an overdose kit between the Canal Walk and an area known as Number 1 last week.
Ruairi Ó Leochain, a primary school teacher, told the Westmeath Independent he is concerned that there are several residents living in that area, while it is a popular walkway for adults and children alike.
'I am concerned for the safety of locals, if they come across needles. It is a well-known area for people walking dogs and you see a lot of children walking down there,' he said.
He is concerned about drug use by people who gather in the area. 'The problem will go somewhere else when it's moved from there,' he said.
A spokesperson for Westmeath County Council confirmed that they have been made aware of the existence of the drugs paraphernalia and arrangements are being made to dispose of them.
A spokesman for Athlone Gardaí said that the disposal of the items is a matter for the county council. He added that the area in question is not a problematic area for drug use, but it is being monitored.
Local Cllr Frankie Keena, who is the chairman of the Athlone Drug Awareness Group, said that drug related litter including injecting equipment is hazardous and needs to be disposed of in an appropriate, safe way by people who are properly trained.
“The immediate collection of this material is vital and thus the issue of collecting this material at weekends if found needs to be addressed,” he said.
“Like other towns in the country Athlone has its own problems with drug use and in particular the disposal of drug related material in both public and private areas. People need to be vigilant at all times and advise their children not to touch any such materials,” he added.
If anyone has any concerns they should contact the council office or 1890 320 005.