Fears over increase in heroin usage in Derry

Concern has been expressed over an increase in heroin usage in Derry after a used hypodermic needle was found on a city footpath. The needle was found by a mother out walking with her children in the Steelstown area. It was discovery near the walkway that divides Earhart Park and Rockfield. The find has led to Independent councillor for the area, Warren Robinson, expressing concern over heroin being used in the city. He said: “This is an area used by hundreds of people every day and is just across the road from one of our primary schools. “At this stage we do not know what the needle was used for but it was used and there is a residue of some sort of liquid inside but the fact that it was found in an open area could reinforce what we already know about the spiralling drug problem in Derry. “I have been made aware during the past number of months of people using heroin in the Derry area on a scale not previously seen. “Primarily, those who I am aware of using heroin have come out of Maghaberry Prison addicted to heroin and have simply continued to use since their release. “I don't want to be alarmist and I want to stress that heroin use is limited to a small number of people and is not used widely but it is spreading. “We do not want to reach the stage where cities like Belfast and Dublin are at with this drug and the community must remain vigilant. “I would appeal to anyone who has been caught up in using heroin to seek medical help and to try and remove themselves from the clutches of the dealers who prey on the vulnerable and don't care about our communities.” Cllr Robinson concluded: "Anyone seeking help in this regard can contact me and I will signpost them to the relevant help and support."