Individual Post

POSTED By : DESTINATION NEWRY
Post Date : 16 Aug 2016 10:14 AM
McCartney Condemns Bonfire Disturbances and Security Alert

 Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has condemned the disturbances and security alert, which arose from a bonfire in the Bogside area of Derry last night. 

The Foyle MLA said; 

"The damage, disturbances and disruption, which arose from last night's bonfire in the Bogside must be condemned. 

"Several families, including elderly people, had to be evacuated from their homes due to a security alert on Charlotte Street. 

"This situation was dictated by a tiny group of young people who are being exploited by more sinister elements who are clearly determined to act against the wishes of the local community. 

"The scenes around the bonfire were in stark contrast with the excellent finale to this year's Féile which showed the positive community spirit of the people in this area who want nothing to do with the bonfire. 

"There was an opportunity to avoid all of these problems through dialogue. Unfortunately that failed because people absented themselves from that process or effectively scuppered it by acting as cheerleaders for anti-community behaviour.

"That process was an opportunity lost and we need to see renewed efforts to avoid a repeat of this situation in the future so the local residents can live in peace.”