Hendron condemns those behind graffiti commemorating shankill bomber

Alliance Belfast Councillor Maire Hendron has condemned those responsible for graffiti which commemorates the Shankill bomber Thomas Begley, which has appeared in the Short Strand area of Belfast. Nine people were killed along with Begley, when his bomb exploded outside a fish shop on the Shankill Road on 23rd October 1993. This graffiti has appeared the day after a plaque was unveiled to Thomas Begley in Ardoyne.

Cllr Maire Hendron said: “Those behind this graffiti have failed to show the respect and sensitivity that the victims deserve. This was a provocative action that will cause further hurt to the relatives of all those murdered on that tragic day twenty years ago.

“Those responsible are trying to set back community relations and to gain a reaction. I would urge for calm on all sides and encourage people not to get involved in such activity.

“I have contacted Belfast Council officials to have this graffiti removed immediately.

“These events are further evidence of the importance for the Haass talks to find a comprehensive process for dealing with the legacy of the past.”

ENDS