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

Estate activities leave residents disgusted and angry - Cllr. Rafferty

Published: 18 March, 2009

'Pure vandalism, arson and what could be construed as attempted murder.' This is what residents from Mullacreevie housing estate in Armagh have told local Councillor Cathy Rafferty occurred on the evening and early morning of the 16th and 17th March.

'A number of householders had property damaged by young vandals on Monday evening, while slogans and symbols, including a swastika, were painted on the road in the middle of the estate. Between 2.30 and 3.00 am of the 17th the trailer of a lorry was set alight causing damage which will no doubt cost serious financial outlay to repair,' said the Sinn Féin representative.

'Perhaps the most serious and sinister incident was only spotted by fire fighters dealing with the lorry blaze. They noticed further smoke rising from another part of the estate and when they investigated they found two wheelie bins on fire which had been placed against the rear of a pensioners bungalow, fortunately they were able to access the property which was smoke filled and ensure the 82 year old lady occupant was safe while they dealt with the burning bins.'

'Only for this action by the vigilant and professional fire fighters we could have been looking at a murder case on St. Patricks Day. I am totally disgusted by all the activity which took place and especially out raged that a vulnerable elderly woman was targeted. I will be working very closely with the local community group and residents in the coming weeks to try and ensure that this anti social behaviour ceases.'

Meanwhile, local community activist, Roy McCartney, a member of local community group, Mullacreevie Development Association said;

'Many people have approached me throughout Tuesday with regards the activity which went on. People are fed up with this behaviour. Where as, many people were willing to accept low level anti social behaviour, passing it off as young peoples high jinks, the type of things happening have become more serious and more frequent. The attack on a defenceless, harmless, elderly member of our community seems to have been the final straw, residents have decided enough is enough. There is a simmering tension in the estate at the moment and we shall be working with our local councilor, Cathy Rafferty, to try and resolve issues and stop these activities. I would appeal to anyone who knows who was responsible for any of the occurrences on Monday evening or Tuesday morning, especially in relation to the attack on the pensioner, to bring the information forward.'