29/03/2010

Army Diffuse Letterkenny 'Head Shop' Device

Bomb disposal units have defused an explosive device left outside a so-called 'head shop' in Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

The device was discovered at the front door of the premises on Pearse Road shortly after 1am last night.

A number of residents were forced to leave their homes as the disposal unit dealt with the device.

It is believed the bomb could be connected to an effort from dissident republicans who have been targeting the shops, which sell 'legal highs', stimulants and drug substitutes.

In January, dissident republicans shot a man in Derry City because his shop sold the so-called 'legal highs'.

On Friday, Dublin TD, and Minister for Lifelong Learning, Seán Haughey welcomed the news that a head shop on Clontarf Road will remain closed after a campaign by local residents.

Mr Haughey said the community were "incensed" at the opening of the head shop and welcomed news the tenant had now agreed to surrender the lease on the property.

“I have previously expressed my total opposition to this head shop and I am delighted that the landlord has moved swiftly and resolved this issue," Mr Haughey said.

He added: "As a local representative I would like to ensure that a similar situation cannot arise again and in this respect I will continue to pursue with the Government a proposal to criminalise head shops.

“Those in the local community will welcome this latest development. It does serve to illustrate, however, the constant need to remain vigilant, especially when an issue arises which may impact on our children.”

(DW/BMcC)

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