Newry play park must be renamed – Dickson

Alliance Justice spokesperson, Stewart Dickson MLA, has said that the Newry play park which is currently named after IRA terrorist Raymond McCreesh, must be renamed. He was speaking after Sinn Fein continued their campaign to retain the current name, as Newry and Mourne Council conduct a consultation in relation to the play park’s name.

Stewart Dickson MLA said: “It is completely unacceptable to name a children’s play park after a terrorist. Terrorism was glorified by adopting Raymond McCreesh’s name for a public facility. This is sending out the wrong message about the type of future we want to create in Northern Ireland and it is disrespectful to victims and survivors.

“It was disappointing that the Newry and Mourne Council voted to retain the name in 2012 but I am pleased that the SDLP has since apologised for the actions of its Councillors in supporting that decision.

“I welcome the review of that decision and hope that the Council will see sense and provide a new name that does not damage community relations.”

ENDS