Condemnation of latest arson bid on church

Condemnation of latest arson bid on church

21 November 2012

A NEWCASTLE politician has condemned another attempted arson attack at the town’s Elim Pentecostal Church.

The Downs Road facility was targeted on Tuesday evening of last week and the

incident has been described by councillor Willie Clarke as an “attack on the community.”

Residents living close to the church — which backs on to the town’s promenade — spotted a fire around 10.30pm and managed to bring it under control before the emergency services arrived.

Councillor Clarke praised the efforts of residents and has no doubt their quick actions prevented the building from sustaining serious damage.

He said the Elim Church has been targeted on a number of occasions over recent years and said the people responsible for the latest incident “need to catch themselves on.”

Councillor Clarke continued: “These people need to think about the impact their actions have on the community. These attacks serve no purpose, but heighten tension and attempt to damage the good community relations in Newcastle.”

The local politician also condemned those responsible for a recent arson attack at the Causeway Road GP surgery in Newcastle which damaged an entrance porch. He said this was as also an attack on the community.

Councillor Clarke added: “Attacks on Orange halls, GAA premises, churches or any other community building are wrong. Those responsible need to stop and realise their actions are not welcome.”