The Ulster Unionist Councillors on Newry & Mourne District Council have expressed their dismay and anger at a decision taken by Republican, Nationalist and Independent representatives to support a proposal to retain the name of a children’s playground after convicted terrorist Raymond McCreesh.

In a joint statement from Ulster Unionist Councillors David Taylor, Andy Moffett & Harold McKee they said, “The decision taken to ratify a proposal to retain the name of the playground after Raymond McCreesh has caused considerable hurt to the minority Unionist Community within Newry & Mourne District. It is particularly distressing to all those families who lost loved ones at the hands of republican terrorists in the local area.’

“We believe the decision will cause considerable harm to community relations locally. Any elected representative who expressed support for the retention of Raymond McCreesh Park had displayed an absolute lack of respect and tolerance towards the feelings of the Unionist Community.’

“Sinn Fein politicians continually express platitudes about the need for reconciliation and better community relations.  However it is abundantly clear that Republicans were deficient of any creditability or genuineness in developing a shared future when they pursue policies of naming playgrounds after convicted terrorists.’

“The Nationalist and Independent Councillors who backed the proposal should search their consciences and reflect on the irrational and morally incomprehensible decision they have made.'

“The reputation of Newry & Mourne District Council has been tarnished by the entire affair.  We believe that the Unionist community’s confidence in the ability of the Council to promote and protect equality for all its citizens has been severely damaged.’