Newcastle’s Mass Pad gets a welcome make-over says Sinn Féin
Mournes’ Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has praised Newcastle Sinn members for carrying out vital maintenance work at the Mass Pad at King Street Newcastle.
Cllr Clarke said: “The path and associated Mass Rock is an interesting and subtle historical reminder of Penal times from around 1693 until 1829 in Ireland when Catholics and other non-established religions were not permitted to practice their religion under Penal Laws.
“As a result, he revealed that mass was often said in secluded outdoor locations, such as the King Street.
“It is also an interesting addition to the heritage of the area and Sinn Féin members, along with residents a number of years ago, decided to make the site more accessible to provide a historic amenity for the local population and visitors.
“It is important to continue to carry out maintenance to keep this part of our heritage accessible to the public, and I would like also to thank local South Down MP Chris Hazzard for helping out.”
