Coin-operated toilet in Limerick 'is a hotspot for drugs'

A COIN-OPERATED toilet in the city centre has become a magnet for drug addicts and anti-social behaviour, it’s been claimed.

Limerick City and County Council has said it is aware of an issue at the toilet located at the junction of Bedford Row and Henry Street, adjacent to Dunnes Stores.

A number of business people have contacted Limerick Live to highlight the fact the toilet has attracted drug users.

And people are even defecating outside the facility, it's been claimed.

“It’s disgusting. It's putting people off coming to our business. They are parking in the Dunnes Stores car park and then they have to pass by that toilet and this morning there was excrement on the ground outside it. You often get the smell of urine as you pass by,” said one businesswoman, who did not wish to be identified.

“Disgusting is the word for it,” she added.

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Another woman who regularly parks in the Dunnes car park told of how she had to step over human faeces when walking towards the riverfront a couple of weeks ago.

"I was so embarrassed - all I could think of was tourists. The Richard Harris statue is close by and the lovely river walkway and here is this eyesore slap bang in the middle of the city. The toilet area is attracting drug users, I've seen them myself. That toilet just has to go," she said.

A spokesperson for council confirmed the problem has been flagged with its toilet maintenance contractor.

Separately, people forcing the door open at another coin-operated toilet in Mungret Park has forced it out of service.

Council said it’s also ensured its contractor is to address the matter.

In the meantime, the Westward Ho Pub and Russell’s Select Bar have offered the use of their toilet facilities nearby.