Richhill advice centre is targeted in attack
Newry and Armagh MLA William Irwin points to the damage caused to his Richhill office.
NEWRY & Armagh MLA William Irwin has vowed that he will not be deterred from carrying out his constituency work after his office in Richhill was targeted in an incident which the DUP member is describing as an “attack on the democratic process”.
Windows were smashed and paint was daubed on the walls of the advice centre, located in Main Street, last Thursday. The incident comes amid growing tensions regarding the Union flag protests across Northern Ireland.
William Irwin condemned the actions of the vandals and described their actions as “pointless” given that his office serves the local community.
Addressing the attacks on Alliance offices in Belfast and death threats made against party colleagues, the MLA said, “While this incident does not compare to some of the other disgraceful attacks and threats on elected representatives, it is an attack on the democratic process nonetheless. Attacking democratic facilities and services is mindless and completely pointless when such facilities are in place to serve our communities needs.”
“The attack on this office will not hinder my work in representing the people of Newry & Armagh. I take my duties as a DUP Assemblyman very seriously and I am devoted to my constituency and I will continue to work tirelessly for the people who elected me to the Assembly.”
Mr Irwin continued, “My office is open for business and I have had many people contact me concerned by such an attack and wishing me well.
“I will be continuing to work on a range of issues including the very important work of progressing the official complaint I have raised with the Equality Commission about the recent decision by Newry & Mourne Council to name a children’s play area after an IRA terrorist.”
Police would ask anyone who may have witnessed this incident or anyone who has any information about this incident to contact them on 0845 600 8000.
Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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Weather for Portadown
Thursday 20 June 2013
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