Drugs discovered in the graveyard at St Patrick’s Church in Bryansford
Sinn Féin Councillors Willie Clarke and Niall Lawler have raised serious concerns following reports from constituents regarding suspected drug-related activity at the St Patrick’s Church graveyard car park in Bryansford.
Councillor Clarke has been contacted by several concerned constituents who reported the discovery of discarded drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy (MDMA), within the car park area.
The location is regularly used by parishioners attending church services, families visiting the graves of loved ones, and people participating in activities at the adjacent community hall.
The presence of illegal drugs in such a public and sensitive community space has caused significant alarm locally and raises serious concerns regarding public safety.
Councillor Clarke said: “I am deeply concerned by reports from residents regarding suspected drug-related activity and the discovery of discarded Class A drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy (MDMA), within the church graveyard car park in Bryansford.
“This is a space used daily by families, parishioners, elderly residents, visitors to the graveyard and community groups. It is completely unacceptable that illegal substances are being discarded in an area so regularly accessed by the public.
“The fact these drugs have reportedly been left in a public car park is particularly alarming. Children and young people use this area frequently and there is a very real danger posed by illegal substances being left where they can be easily accessed.”
Councillor Niall Lawler said: “People should be able to attend worship, visit the graves of loved ones, and participate in community activities without being exposed to evidence of drug misuse or criminal behaviour.
“The community is rightly concerned and there is a clear need for increased vigilance and enforcement to address these issues and reassure local residents.”
The Sinn Féin representatives confirmed they have raised the matter directly with the PSNI and requested that the area receives increased monitoring and attention in response to community concerns.
Sinn Féin has formally raised these concerns with the PSNI and requested that the matter is fully investigated.
