Cllr Angela Dobbins: Uncertainty regarding the viability of Earhart Park device

Bomb disposal experts had to be called to Earhart Park area of Derry after a suspect device was discovered earlier today.

Police had cordoned off the area and had advised residents to stay at the rear of their homes.

Local SDLP Cllr Angela Dobbins who was at the scene said that there was uncertainty regarding the viability of the device.

She stated: “I was informed that a suspect device was discovered near the mobile shop in the Earhart Pk area just before lunchtime. Arriving at the scene the police had already had an area cordoned off and they said that residents had been advised to leave their properties and that the local community centre was available to accommodate the residents. The PSNI also informed me that there were a few residents who were reluctant to vacate their homes and that they had been advised to stay indoors at the rear of their properties.

"Following the arrival of the bomb disposal units the cordons were increased and sandbags were delivered to the scene.”

Commending the local volunteers at the community centre, Cllr Dobbins continued: “The staff and volunteers at the local community centre deserve every praise for their quick response in setting up somewhere safe and warm for residents to go.  Those residents who were out doing the usual Saturday trips like shopping, or taking children to activities etc were unable to return to their homes.

"It is still unclear if this was a viable device but if it is, or if it is a prank, the disruption and distress this has caused is unmeasurable and can only be condemned.”