North Belfast disturbances ‘diverting resources’ from search for Noah Donohoe, councillor claims

An SDLP councillor has warned that clashes between groups of youths in north Belfast are diverting vital police resources from the search for missing teenager Noah Donohoe.

By Jonathan McCambridge

Published 26th Jun 2020, 08:07 BST

Oldpark councillor Paul McCusker has appealed for calm after reports that a large number of youths gathered at the Waterworks near Westland Drive area yesterday evening.

Mr McCusker said: “I am concerned to hear that there have been further clashes in the Waterworks and other parts of north Belfast, between groups of young people. There have been reports of injuries and a PSNI response.”

“I am appealing to all young people to remain calm. Not only are they against the wishes of local residents, who do not support these actions but they are diverting vital PSNI resources away from searching for a lost child.”

“I am urging young people in north Belfast to reflect on their actions and what the consequences could be.”

The search for 14-year-old Noah Donohoe, who has been missing since Sunday, is continuing today.