Fury at repeated attacks on lifebelts in Omagh and Newtownstewart

VITAL life-saving equipment continues to be targeted by vandals – with officials warning that lives could be lost as a result.

In recent weeks, life rings and ropes along waterways in Omagh and Newtownstewart have been repeatedly tampered with or removed, rendering them useless in the event of an emergency.

In Omagh, Sinn Féin councillor Marty McColgan said he spotted the damage while walking along the riverside.

“I was walking along the riverwalk in Omagh when I noticed a life-rope had been tampered with,” he said. “I’ve contacted the council to ensure it is fixed urgently.”

Cllr McColgan said many people were enjoying the good weather along the river at the time and stressed that any interference with safety equipment could end in tragedy.

“As we move into the summer months, with more people using our waterways, I would re-iterate the appeal for all life-saving equipment to be left alone.”

In Newtownstewart, Cllr Caroline Devine said equipment along the riverside at Vaughan’s Holm had been vandalised just 48 hours after being replaced.

“I’m deeply concerned and saddened,” she said.

“The senseless actions of those causing this destruction are totally unacceptable.

“Their actions are extremely dangerous and could ulimately be the difference between life and death.”

She urged people to be vigilant and to report vandalism to the police or the Community Rescue Service (CRS).

Western District CRS Commander Ivan Barr said the damage was ‘very disappointing’ and issued a stark warning.

“This equipment is in place to maximise the potential of saving a life should someone enter the river,” he said.

“The removal or vandalism of life-saving equipment will prove catastrophic in such an incident.”