Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Councillor Highlights Christmas Light Problem

Published: 26 November, 2008

Sinn Féin Councillor Cathy Rafferty has welcomed the quick reaction of the Mall West shopping mall staff after removing strong Christmas lights that could potentially harm people with epilepsy.

Ms. Rafferty said,

"I was contacted by a shopper whose son suffers from epilepsy who informed me that the Christmas tree lights in the Mall were causing problems for him, the lights were set at a fast flash time which was causing her son and others with epilepsy, problems"

"When the mall staff were contacted by Sinn Féin they were extremely helpful explaining that no one had reported any problem until this year, I have only praise for all the staff involved, from Sainsbury's, to the Malls manager who contacted the landlord immediately, the landlord concurring that the light pattern was too severe and should be changed to a more shopper friendly pattern as soon as possible"

"These lights add to the shopping experience, and I am glad that all shoppers from Armagh and beyond can now go to the mall with peace of mind, this is a family friendly precinct with shops which are proud to be operating there and these actions have proved their concern for their customers once again"

The Sinn Féin councillor emphasised

"The problem of flashing lights inducing fits is not something that many people think of and indeed it is because of this that you hear the warning on television. I would urge those throughout the Armagh City and District to be aware of the problem and to take precautions so everyone can enjoy Christmas in peace"