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Newry & Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins has praised the efforts of local communities and young people in relation to the issue of bonfires over the anniversary of internment.
Ms Kimmins said “Bonfires are contentious for a number of reasons. We in Sinn Féin have been encouraging the community to move away from the erection of bonfires.Full credit to all who worked together to ensure that the August anniversary of internment has passed of peacefully. The key thing now is to ensure we build on this work in the time ahead."
Chairperson of Newry City District Electoral Area, Cllr Roisin Mulgrew echoed her colleagues sentiments.“Well done all involved. Many were concerned that there was potential for serious anti community behaviour but engagement with communities and young people supported by the statutory Agencies ensured that this did not happen.
"We had a series of meetings with PSNI, Housing Executive,CRJ, Council officials, PSCP and Newry DEA Councillors.
"Myself and my colleagues Cllr Charlie Casey and Mickey Brady MP contacted local businesses in the Armagh Road, Craigmore and Carnbane areas asking them to secure yards to help prevent the removal of pallets and other materials.
"This joined up collective approach engaged young people in the area and provided a range of activities and events to prevent them from getting involved in anti-community activity.
"We once again thank our young people, youth workers and community activists for their efforts. Full credit to them”.
