Sinn Féin Councillor Paul Hogan has slammed what he called the reckless discarding of used needles at popular walkways and play areas around Athlone. He is calling on all associated agencies to ensure the areas are cleaned up as a matter of urgency and services provided to prevent against this blatant disregard for the safety of our citizens.

“I raised this issue at the last Joint Policing Committee and to my horror; the problem has actually gotten worse. This situation must be rectified as soon as possible so that children can play in safety and parents can feel happy to allow their children out on the streets.

“I have huge concern that these needles have been discarded on popular walkways, at sports facilities and in children’s play areas around the town. Dirty needles pose the threat of contracting diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. It is completely reprehensible and irresponsible by those invloved to discard needles in this fashion.

“Needle-stick injuries are wounds caused by needles that accidentally puncture the skin. Injection of blood-borne viruses is the major hazard of needle stick injuries, especially the viruses that cause AIDS (the HIV virus), hepatitis B and hepatitis C. In this regard, it is imperative that these needles are disposed of in a safe manner by the relevant authorities.

“Despite clear evidence that residential drug treatment is effective, severe difficulties remain in accessing treatment. There is an urgent need to end waiting lists for such treatment. Harm reduction is not confined to supporting people in their efforts to break their addiction. Efforts must also be made to minimize the dangers to health posed by drug use. This includes the need for much expanded needle exchange programmes to reduce the risk of HIV and Hepatitis C infection.

“This is yet another factor of reducing our Community Guards numbers. The town now only has two community guards as opposed to 8 in recent times. Active community patrols act as deterrent to this type of behaviour.

“I am calling on the relevant authorities to tackle this problem head on and ensure that the health of all our citizens is protected from this growing concern.