Dickson: Newry play park must be renamed

Alliance Chief Whip, Stewart Dickson MLA has said that the Newry play park named after Raymond McCreesh must be renamed. He was speaking after the Equality Commission announced that the decision of Newry and Mourne Council to retain the play park’s name in 2012 should be reviewed.

Stewart Dickson MLA said: “This play park must be renamed. It is unacceptable to name any building or property after a terrorist. The Council’s decision in 2012 was very damaging to community relations in the area and right across Northern Ireland.

“This is sending out the wrong message about terrorism, as I believe it glorifies their actions. It is also very hurtful for all the victims and survivors.

“I was very disappointed when the Council decided to retain the name, but the SDLP leadership has at least apologised for the actions of their Councillors. However, the opposition of the SDLP and Sinn Fein to our proposal that good relations considerations are treated on a par with equality in the new Councils, shows that they are still not committed to the principle of shared spaces. Good relations considerations must be taken seriously.

“I hope there will be an urgent process to rename this play park.”

ENDS