DRUGS paraphernalia abandoned in a children's play park in Co Tyrone has been branded "completely unacceptable".
The items, which included a plastic bottle `bong' type item, usually associated with smoking cannabis, which had a pipe attached and liquid inside, was discovered in the grounds of Courtrai Park at Barrack Street in the centre of Strabane early today by a resident.
SDLP assembly member Daniel McCrossan, who described the discovery as "reprehensible", said the play park, which is located beside Strabane PSNI station, is a busy thoroughfare used by parents walking their children to a nearby primary school.
"I am totally disgusted and infuriated to see this in a local play park," he said.
"Our children deserve safe and clean environments to play in.
"This is completely unacceptable and cannot be allowed to continue.
"Courtrai Park, in Strabane, is a place that so many of us have great childhood memories in. That cannot be allowed to be tarnished by a minority.
"The use of drugs for recreational purposes is not acceptable at any time and most certainly not in children’s play parks. Children should not be exposed to such".
Mr McCrossan added: "I have engaged with the Derry and Strabane District Council and the PSNI regarding these ongoing issues".
A PSNI spokesman said: "Police in Strabane received a report of drugs paraphernalia at Courtrai Park on Thursday 11th October.
"Officers attended and removed a bottle which appeared to have been modified into a bong".
Neighbourhood Sergeant David McIlwaine said: ”Passing attention will be given to this area to discourage any illegal activity and I would ask anyone with any information about the use or supply of drugs or anti-social behaviour to make us aware on 101".
