A Derry priest who took leave of absence due to ill health shortly revealing he had been tormented by youths involved anti-social behaviour close to his parochial house, has the support of his parishioners, a local councillor has said.
Fr Dermott Harkin.
Police patrols were stepped up around the parochial house at St Mary’s Church in Creggan after Fr Dermott Harkin earlier this month said he had been “terrified” by young people engaged in anti-social behaviour.
The parochial house is situated next to a laneway where, according to Fr Harkin, groups of up to 20 youths had persistently kept him awake at night by “screaming and shouting.”
Fr Harkin revealed the anti-social behaviour would begin at around 11.00am and continue, at times, until 6.30am.
However, a short time later it emerged Fr Harkin had been granted leave of absence due to health reasons.
Sinn Fein Cllr Kevin Campbell said parishioners were offering support to Fr Harkin.
He said “I have spoken to many people in the community over recent days that were saddened to hear Fr Harkin wasn’t well.
“They conveyed to me their deep appreciation for the work he has been doing in Creggan since he took over the parish; he is very popular and attendances at Mass had increased over recent months.
“They have asked me to thank Fr Harkin for the sterling work he has been doing and wish him a speedy recovery from his illness and also that he is in everyone’s thoughts and prayers at the minute.”
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