The garden has been closed for safety reasons.
The syringe was found by a child.
The community is dismayed by the increase in drug activity.
A small Wexford community garden has been closed for nearly two months after a child made a dangerous discovery.
The small fairy garden, just off the centre of Camolin village where many children enjoyed spending their time at, has been closed off from the community for a long period following the discovery of discarded syringes, with no plans on opening again until a solution is found.
According to councillor Craig Doyle, the community space was well-used and much enjoyed until the incident occurred.
“It is a Fairy garden, with benches near the back for parents and adults to sit while their children roam about the space. Unfortunately, one of the children found and picked up one of the needles and came back with it to show their parent,” he explained.
He stressed how differently the situation could have unfolded and expressed shock that it was in such a public place.
“Luckily it didn’t prick any of the children. Now, we can’t say there was anything in it specifically, but it was unlikely that it was empty. There is also bacteria to think about as well. The garden is just 100 metres off the main street of Camolin, a really public place.”
He added that the community are currently looking for a solution in order to make the area safe enough to reopen and to guarantee it does not happen again.
The are hoping to have CCTV cameras installed, but the cost is an issue as well as installing proper signage and getting everything approved, pushing back the re-opening date further.
“The garden is meant to be safe, peaceful, and family-friendly. This kind of behaviour has no place in our community.”
He added that Gardaí have been informed about the issue and a request has been made for increased Garda presence in the area to address the increase in drug activity in public spaces.
“I just hope a solution is found. It is also important that if anyone sees anything dodgy that they contact the Gardaí as soon as possible,” he said.