Chris Lyttle MLA said:”After negative images of gunmen recently appeared in murals in East and North Belfast, I am pleased to see the positive work that has taken place to re-image these three paramilitary murals.
“Paramilitary images glorify terrorism and seek to demarcate territory. We must move away from negative murals that aim to create fear and intimidation among the local community.
“Images can speak a thousand words, and murals are an effective way to communicate positive aspirations for education, employment, human rights and non-violence in our community.
“This new artwork shows the positive imagery that the vast majority of people want to see on our streets.
“Instead of memorialising the negative aspects of our history, we should be celebrating and commemorating the positive change that we have witnessed in our society and the huge positive cultural, sporting and industrial heritage that we share.
“I would like to recognise the work of my colleague Councillor Marie Hendron as Chair of Belfast Council’s Good Relations Partnership on this issue and all she is doing to help deliver a shared future for everyone.”
ENDS