Criticism as IRA slogan is daubed on Killyleagh cenotaph

Criticism as IRA slogan is daubed on Killyleagh cenotaph

17 July 2013

A DUP politician has condemned those responsible for writing “IRA” on Killyleagh’s War Memorial.

The graffiti is believed to have been etched on the cenotaph at the top of High Street either late last Wednesday evening or during the early hours of Thursday.

Councillor Billy Walker said the incident has caused a lot of concern and people on both sides of the community divide are upset that a memorial to the fallen of two world wars and other conflicts should be targeted.

The Rowallane councillor, who contacted Down Council officials to have what he described as “sectarian graffiti” removed, said writing slogans of any kind is wrong.

He said the behaviour of those who targeted the war memorial located at the side of Killyleagh Castle will be roundly condemned by the vast majority of people.

Councillor Walker said he is “utterly disgusted” at what’s happened, suggesting it’s very sad that there are those in society who would want to desecrate a cenotaph.

“This kind of behaviour is offensive to many and is not welcome in Killyleagh or indeed any other town across our district,” he declared.

“It achieves nothing and hits ratepayers in the pocket as Down Council is responsible for removing this obscenity from the cenotaph.”

Councillor Walker suggested that he wouldn’t be at all surprised that those responsible for the graffiti may well have the names of their ancestors on the cenotaph.

He added: “This incident will be distressing for many people whose loved ones are remembered on the memorial.”

Councillor Terry Andrews said it is very sad that there are those in society who would want to desecrate a memorial dedicated to people who laid down their lives for others.

“It beggars belief that a cenotaph should be targeted in this way. The people responsible should hang their heads in shame,” he added.