Parents in housing estates in Mullaghmatt are afraid to let their children outdoors for fear they will be introduced to drug taking or become mules.
This is according to Cllr Brian McKenna who spoke to Northern Sound about the anti-social behaviour in the area that is leading to drug dealing, assaults and intimidation.
He says the problem has been going on for four years and despite reports to Gardai and Monaghan Co Council, nothing has been done to deter the behaviour.
Cllr McKenna says four of five groups of people are involved and they are making life hell for the rest of the residents, including children and teenagers.
He says all the agencies and authorities must now work together so that a long-term solution can be found.
"The issue of drug dealing is an ongoing problem," continued Cllr McKenna.
"And we need everybody, especially the Gardai because they are the ones that have the power to take those people on.
"The other problem that we face too is the courts.
"We see some of the people involved in this type of behaviour coming before the courts.
"And unfortunately they end up with suspended sentences.
"It's a joke.
