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

COUNCILLOR APPEALS FOR GAZA COUNCIL MOTION UNITY

Published: 15 January, 2009

Chair of Newry and Mournes Equality Committee Councillor Pat Mc Ginn has appealed to all Councillors to support a motion to be debated this Monday (14th Jan) night at full Council condemning the appalling loss of life in Gaza and to unite in the call for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The Sinn Féin Councillor said that his Party's motion could be embraced by all. "Many people, including a large number of young people have approached me enquiring as to why Newry and Mourne Council cannot in one voice condemn the appalling loss of life in Gaza and demand that those responsible for attacks on all civilians stop their actions" said the Councillor who continued "The situation in Gaza is dire and ongoing. There seems to be no let up in the suffering of the people of Gaza. The United Nations has highlighted the growing shortage of basic foodstuffs and fresh water. The blockade of Gaza has been ongoing since June of 2007. This is a humanitarian crisis. We cannot not stand idle and let this crisis continue. We need to see an immediate ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the free movement of humanitarian aid". The Councillor said that over the past weeks people from all sections of the local community had added their voices to the international calls for an immediate ceasefire. "Newry and Mourne Council need to reflect compassion and care for all of those who have died as a result of this conflict as well as the demand for action that exits throughout our communities. This motion before the Council should I hope, allow that to happen", said the elected representative