Irish sign damage anger

Irish sign damage anger

22 June 2016

SOUTH Down MLA Colin McGrath has condemned those responsible for vandalising Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s new bilingual town signs.

Several signs in the Ballynahinch area were defaced within hours of being erected, with Mr McGrath blaming what happened on the “apparent disapproval” of the use of the Irish language on them.

He continued: “Right across the political spectrum, tourism was highlighted as the local council’s main economic driver so for this unwarranted vandalism to have taken place is disgraceful. I would appeal to the very few individuals who have been involved in this criminality to cease.

“We have so much to offer here in South Down in terms of our tourism product from the Mournes to St Patrick’s Country – we all need to take an active role in promoting our district which will be for the betterment of us all.”

Mr McGrath has appealed to those responsible for the vandalism and community leaders to ensure the attacks are not repeated.

“The design of the new council logo was a democratic decision taken by the council and each and every damaged sign will be have to be replaced, unfortunately at a significant cost to the ratepayer,” he continued.

The MLA added: “I would urge community representatives to temper the language they use when conveying their dislike for such signs as some may perceive this as a ‘nod’ to carry out such vandalism. This vandalism only drains council funds which I would much prefer to see spent on other services such as community events and refuse collection.”