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

Council 'Penny Pinching' for Newry City Marathon

Published: 24 April, 2009

Sinn Féin Councillor Turlough Murphy has said that there can be no 'penny pinching' by Newry and Mourne Council for the upcoming Newry City Marathon on 25th May.

Councillor Murphy was commenting after it was revealed that the sports centre and its car park will not be available to participants and spectators as the event will take place on a bank holiday.

Cllr Murphy said,

"The Newry City marathon is one of the biggest sporting events of the year in this area yet the city's sports centre and car park will be locked shut for the day."

"While I acknowledge that the current economic climate means inevitable cutbacks, we must recognise that this huge event will bring thousands of people to Newry."

"It is a chance to showcase Newry, and 'penny pinching' such as this will portray us in a very bad light."

"I have recently spoken to organisers and participants of the marathon who are extremely disappointed that these cuts have been made."

"Cities such as Dublin, Belfast and London host marathons also. These cities are to the fore in promoting these great events and have reaped the benefits for doing so."

"While the Council may seek to make small savings now, it will have devastating long terms effects for the future."

Councillor Murphy concluded by calling for support from all political parties on the issue.