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

Response to unionist statements on Crossmaglen Halloween festival

Published: 3 November, 2009

Crossmaglen Sinn Féin councillor Terry Hearty said:

"This year's Crossmaglen Festival was a fantastic event and was enjoyed by families from all over South Armagh.

"It is unfortunate that there are some politicians who are pursuing sensationalist headlines in order to distract from the work carried out by the local community in organising this event.

"Throughout the weekend community stewards ensured the safety of all those in attendance, and they should be commended for their good work.

"Both myself and Cllr Colman Burns were also present as elected representatives for the area and I was in contact with PSNI Inspector Davey Beck throughout the duration of the festival.

"Inspector Beck informed me of a minor disturbance and passed on his gratitude to the stewards who diffused the incident.

"He then told me that he would call me if any serious incident took place - to date he has not reported anything 'serious'.

"Unionist politicians will not be allowed to undermine this wonderful community festival.

"The headlines of this weekend should tell of the activities which 300-400 children took part in or the parade which over 600 children attended not the rants of people who were not even there."