Pensioners abused by 10-year-olds

DUP councillor Alan Robinson pointed to a recent example of a 62-year-old female pensioner who was subjected to verbal abuse in the Edenmore Road area by a group of around six young children to illustrate his point, and called for stiffer punishments, greater parental control and education for those responsible.

He said: “Last Friday and Saturday evening, a 62-year-old pensioner became the latest target of a venomous verbal attack by up to six children riding bicycles in the Edenmore Road area.

“The pensioner, who I know very well, was at her home tending to her garden when she was approached by children believed to be aged between 10–14 years old, who proceeded to dish out vile and insulting language. A similar incident occurred on the Friday evening prior to Saturday’s episode. Both incidents have been reported to police.

“Elderly people have the right to live in their home and go about their business free from harassment and fear of attack. This is one in a long line of incidents that have been brought to my attention in recent times. Increasingly, my work load as a councillor involves writing to police or visiting the homes of those who have been subjected to attack or verbal harassment.

“I have heard some say that this modern day anti-social behaviour is the result of young people having nothing to do, however, this is an argument that I cannot support as older people often tell me that they too had little to do when growing up but never felt the need to attack older people of their generation.

“Without wanting to moralise over others, it is my view that stiffer punishments, greater parental control and education are the key to unlocking this phenomenon.

“It must be stressed that the vast majority of our young people would never entertain the notion of abusing older people, attacking their property or bringing themselves repeatedly to the attention of the police. It is a small minority, a minority that must be repeatedly faced down.”