DUP MLA hits out at ‘sectarian' vandalism of Orange Arch in Newtownabbey
North Belfast politician Phillip Brett condemned the latest attack on the arch alongside local business properties.
Mr Brett said: "Sadly, this is far from the first occasion in which the Glengormley Arch has been vandalised over recent years with sectarian graffiti.
"The latest incident is not only an attack on the right to cultural expression but an attack on our entire community with town centre premises also vandalised yet again.
'These cowardly acts do nothing but stoke tension and they have no place in our society. I have spoken with the PSNI and urged them to take swift action against a tiny minority who have been seeking to provoke, intimidate and divide our communities.
'I want to commend the members of Carnmoney District LOL No. 25 who have engaged positively with the local community and public bodies to ensure the 12th July period is celebrated with tolerance and respect as they prepare to host the East Antrim Combine Demonstration this year in Glengormley."
News Catch Up - Monday 23rd June
In 2022, unionists welcomed permission being granted to erect the arch, which has been considered controversial in the past.
Carnmoney District LOL 25 had applied to the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to erect the arch on the Antrim Road in time for the area's mini-Twelfth parade.
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Glasgow Times
15 hours ago
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