Dundrum graffiti is a hate crime say police
Colin McGrath says police regard Dundrum Graffiti as a hate crime
The SDLP’s South DOwn MLA Colin McGrath has welcomed news from the PSNI that sectarian graffiti which appeared in Dundrum is to be treated as a hate crime.
Commenting, the South Down MLA has said: “I was horrified when I was first alerted to the appearance of this sectarian graffiti in Dundrum.
“Only two weeks ago, in another part of the village similar graffiti appeared. This is disturbing and has caused significant hurt and upset within the local community.
“Dundrum is a mixed community, in which significant work has been undertaken to ensure good relationships among everyone here.
“Those who have painted this message either do not know the damage it does to those relationships, or do not care. Either way, it is unacceptable.”
McGrath added: Following the spotlight which has been shone on this, I welcome the news that first off it has been removed, but also that the PSNI will now be treating this as a hate crime, and will now conduct further inquiries throughout the village to determine who carried out this act.
`’We need those who did this to understand that their actions have consequences.
“It may be that those who painted this are too young to remember the dark days of the Troubles.
“Regardless, sectarianism in any form is not acceptable in our society.
“People here have chosen the way of peace, and democracy. Slogans like this have no place in the New Ireland we seek to build, and those responsible really should reflect on that.”
McMurray and Young condemn sectarian graffiti in Dundrum
South Down Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray and Newry Mourne and Down District Council Slieve Croob Councillor Helena Young criticise those responsible for the sectarian graffiti found in Dundrum.
Mr McMurray said: “I am saddened to see that there have been two incidents of graffiti in Dundrum over the last few weeks.
“I utterly condemn the individuals behind this sectarian messaging. There should be no tolerance in our society for such views.
“Those who spread sectarian propaganda do not represent the entire Dundrum community. We are a diverse and welcoming community and must unite to prevent those who seek to divide us.
“Alliance representatives will, and continue to, work and communicate with all residents and agencies within the village in order to build a shared community.”
Cllr Young added: “I’m very disappointed to see that graffiti has appeared for the second time in a matter of weeks in Dundrum. It serves no purpose other than to increase tension within the community.
“People want to live with their neighbours in peace and harmony. Dundrum recently held a community street festival which was a huge success and reflects what Dundrum is all about.”
