MP's Hit Out After Disgraceful Display At Anti-Internment Bonfire

MP's have hit out after a number of people mocked victims and survivors during an anti-internment bonfire in Newry.

A poster making reference to Willie Frazer's father, who was murdered by the IRA, was placed on top of the bonfire before it was set alight.

Police are treating the incident as a suspected hate crime.

Alliance Deputy leader Stephen Farry said: "A hate-filled move designed to promote division among communities, this is a disgusting decision allowed to proceed by all those involved in this anti-internment bonfire and must be stopped.

"Victims and survivors and those who have lost loved ones must be respected and supported, not taunted in this vile way for short-term enjoyment by some."

Ulster Unionist Councillor David Taylor said a "multitude of hate crimes have been committed".

He said: “Items placed on the bonfire reference victims’ campaigner William Frazer and his late father Bertie Frazer, who was murdered by the IRA. Other items direct highly offensive remarks towards HM The Queen and the RUC.

“The Frazer family have suffered greatly at the evil hands of Republicanism terrorism and it is completely unacceptable that they should have to tolerate this despicable behaviour.

“These actions highlight that a sinister and threatening mindset continues to prevail within Republicanism and the bonfire organisers should be roundly condemned across the political spectrum."

SDLP MLA Justin McNulty said: "Those responsible should be ashamed of themselves. 

"In 2018 there can be no tolerance for such hate in our society."

(CD/MH)