New Council Chair calls for Drive In Cinema.
The incoming chair of Newry Mourne and Down Council, Councillor Laura Devlin, has called on council officers to explore the options for bringing a drive in cinema to the district.
Commenting the SDLP Councillor said: “There can be no doubt that we are living through some of the most unprecedented and life changing times in recent memory.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much of our everyday life and tragically hundreds of people have lost their lives to this invisible killer, and my party colleagues and I extend our most heartfelt sympathies to the friends and relatives of those who have died.
“As we move forward and more restrictions ease, we as elected representatives must take the lead and explore how we can offer opportunities for people to interact once more in a safe environment.
“One that adheres to the legalities of social distancing. One such measure that I would like to have explored is a drive in cinema. This is something which we have seen from local community groups in our district before and is always a great evening.
“It will mean people can enjoy an evening together while still maintaining social distancing in the comfort of their own car. Therefore I want to look at having such an evening in Newcastle as I commence my year in office.
“We will then gauge the success of this – and indeed how it complements the legislation on social distancing, and then hopefully be in a position to roll this out across the entire district over the course of the year in all of our towns.
“Already this idea has gained a lot of support from my local constituents which I think is a testament to the need that currently exists within all of us to connect and eventually interact with our family and friends once more.
“The test of how we unlock that, however, will be in how we can continue to adhere to the essential government guidelines on social distancing and ultimately defeat this disease.”
