The Killyhevlin water ski jetty has been closed to both pedestrians and boat users.
ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour has become so bad in Fermanagh police have been forced to close a popular local jetty.
As reported in last week’s Herald, since the beginning of the summer “a handful of young people”, according to police, have been congregating on jetties, drinking, making noise and leaving the places “like a tip.” In various places around the county, life buoys have even been thrown in the lough.
Last week the PSNI issued a strong warning about the dangers of drinking near water, and about the damage the behaviour was having on local wildlife.
Then, on Friday past, police announced: “Following two weeks of anti-social behaviour, underage drinking, noise complaints and other criminal acts, the Killyhevlin water ski jetty has been closed to both pedestrians and boat users.
“This has been deemed necessary due to damage caused and concerns for safety of young people swimming from and using the jetty whilst partying and consuming alcohol.”
David Morrison from the Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel said it was with “some regret, but yet relief” the water sports jetty had been closed at the hotel.
“As we are all very aware, it only takes a small minority to ruin something for all concerned, and it is a shame that this action has had to be taken,” he said. “However, it does hopefully reduce the risk element, in terms of health and safety, and does remove the fear of a fatal accident occurring. Anti-social behaviour, alcohol and water are not a good combination.”
Enniskillen-based business, Bersery’s Deliveries, are also doing their bit to help curb the anti-social behaviour. Last week they announced on their Facebook page they had not and would not be delivering any alcohol to any jetties or outdoor area.
“We are working closely with the police on this matter,” they said.
“Please take care when consuming alcohol near water as this is extremely dangerous.”
With regard the issue of life buoys being thrown in the water, which has been happening in Kesh and Lisnaskea, a spokesman for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, who are responsible for the rings, said those carrying out this behaviour would face the wrath of the law.
“The Council provides life saving equipment at facilities and locations under its control,” they said. “The Council reports any wilful damage to Council property to the PSNI and actively pursues prosecution.”
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