Newry faceless vandals “don’t represent Derrybeg”

Local Republican activist, Derrybeg woman Eileen Hillen, has slated those responsible for vandalising a community sign that shows support for health and front-line workers.

The sign was put up by Community Restorative Justice (CRJ), with the full support of Derrybeg residents.

Speaking after replacing the vandalised sign, Eileen told Newry Times, “Who would vandalise a sign showing support for health workers in the middle of a public health crisis?

“The people responsible for this horrible act have no support in Derrybeg, or anywhere else in Newry.

“They are a tiny group of anti-community elements and should stop this childish and pointless behaviour.”

Eileen continued, “Community Restorative Justice is a great organisation who have helped people the length and breadth of Newry.

“They have been particularly powerful in supporting people through neighbourhood disputes and driving community development locally.

“During this pandemic, CRJ caseworkers have been to the fore of our local community response, working diligently and discreetly with those who need the most help.

She added, “The people responsible for this vandalism couldn’t lace their boots.”

Eileen, pictured above with Newry and Armagh MLA at the newly replaced sign in Derrybeg, continued, “I know CRJ and all community activists are welcome in Derrybeg and I also know that they’ll continue to work tirelessly for all.

“I’m delighted that the sign has been replaced, especially because it’s so close to Daisy Hill, our local hospital, staffed by brilliant people, that everyone in Newry is rightly very proud of.”

Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins said, “Those who damaged the sign have insulted the integrity, compassion and care of our community groups and those key workers who the signs were highlighting.

“Like Eileen and many within our communities I want to reaffirm our support for Community Restorative Justice Ireland and all community groups who are working to support the people of Newry during these challenging times,” she added.

Keep up to date with all the latest Northern Ireland Coronavirus / Covid-19 news HERE

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Posted by NewryTimes News on May 29 2020. Filed under Community, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry