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Newry councillor Aidan Mathers has strongly condemned an attack on firefighters following a blaze on Clanrye Avenue in the Meadow. A small group of youths started a fire before turning on Fire Service personnel who attended the scene.The PSNI helicopter was called to the scene at one stage.
Councillor Mathers described the events as completely unacceptable, saying: "What we witnessed in the Meadow Estate tonight is completely unacceptable and must be condemned by everyone. The anti-social behaviour of those involved caused significant fear and disruption for local residents."
Cllr Mathers said the attack on emergency workers was disgraceful. "The deliberate setting of a fire and the subsequent attack on firefighters responding to the incident is disgraceful. Emergency service personnel work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and should never be subjected to this type of behaviour."
The councillor appealed to parents and guardians to speak to their young people about the consequences of such actions, warning those involved to "fully consider the impact their behaviour is having on the wider community, as well as the potential consequences for their own futures should they face criminal charges."
Cllr Mathers said he hoped the behaviour would stop immediately. "Our community deserves to be safe, respected and free from intimidation. I hope this behaviour comes to an immediate end so that residents can go about their lives without fear or disruption."
