Vandals target vital lifesaving equipment at Killyleagh quay

Vandals target vital lifesaving equipment at Killyleagh quay

6 December 2023

VANDALS have again targeted vital lifesaving equipment in Killyleagh.

Life ropes packed into cannisters at the harbour walkway were removed from their holder with fears that if the worrying trend continues, the devices could be temporarily removed.

Rowallane councillor, Callum Bowsie, has appealed to those responsible for the trouble to stop.

He revealed he has reported missing life ropes three times from the western walkway at the town’s picturesque harbour walkway this year.

Cllr Bowsie said the life ropes have been found scattered along the Killyleagh foreshore and put back into their holding tubes by passing residents.

He said the harbour area is being increasingly used and the lifesaving ropes need to be accessible at all times.

Cllr Bowsie has also thanked Newry, Mourne and Down Council staff for replacing the life ropes after they have been removed, but fears the local authority may only do this so many times.

“In future, the council may have no option other than to remove the life ropes until they can be assured those who continually remove then stop what they are doing.