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Councillor Michael Savage said: "I totally condemn this latest attack on Altnaveigh Orange Hall, which has been left in a terrible state after many acts of vandalism and the daubing of sectarian graffiti. The continual vandalism at the hall is a stain on our city and it is sad that a tiny mindless minority cannot find it in their hearts to tolerate or respect difference in our society.
"I am a nationalist who believes in a New Ireland and that Ireland will be built on mutual respect for all beliefs, cultures and traditions. The people who carried out this latest vandalism, which may have been an attempt to gain entry and potentially set fire to the building, have no interest in building relationships and developing mutual respect, either that or they just don't get it.
"A lot of very good cross community work continues in our city and district and actions like this latest attack at Altnaveigh fly in the face of that positive work. I would plead to those involved to ask themselves what they think they are achieving by doing what they are doing and tell them to stop it now. The people of Newry have moved on and want to build on our peace process here, it's time those involved caught up with the rest of us.
"John Hume said 'Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.' I would plead to those involved to give those words of wisdom some serious thought and recognise the futility of their actions."
