Sectarian graffiti in Dundrum is ‘unacceptable’

Sectarian graffiti in Dundrum is ‘unacceptable’

24 July 2024

RECENT sectarian messages in Dundrum are being treated as a hate crime, police have confirmed.

There have been a number of incidents which have been condemned by local politicians including South Down MLAs Colin McGrath and Andy McMurray and Slieve Croob councillor Helena Young.

Mr McGrath said he was “horrified” when first alerted to the appearance of the graffiti. 

He said that two weeks ago, in another part of the village, similar graffiti appeared, which he described as “disturbing” and caused significant hurt and upset within the local community.

“Dundrum is a mixed community, in which significant work has been undertaken to ensure good relationships among everyone,” said Mr McGrath.

“Those who have painted these sectarian messages either do not know the damage it does to those relationships, or do not care. Either way, it is unacceptable.”

Mr McGrath has welcomed the removal of the graffiti and confirmation that what happened is being treated as a hate crime.

“Police are conducting further inquiries to determine who carried out this act,” he confirmed.

“We need those who did this to understand that their actions have consequences. It may be that those who painted these slogans are too young to know about the dark days of the Troubles.”

But Mr McGrath said that regardless, “sectarianism in any form is not acceptable in our society”.

He added: “People here have chosen the way of peace, and democracy. Slogans like this have no place in the New Ireland we seek to build, and those responsible really should reflect on that.”

Mr McMurray said he was “saddened” at what happened and condemned the individuals responsible.

The Assemblyman said there should be no tolerance in society for such views.

“Those who spread sectarian propaganda do not represent the entire Dundrum community,” Mr McMurray declared.

“We are a diverse and welcoming community and must unite to prevent those who seek to divide us. Alliance representatives will continue to work and communicate with all residents and agencies within the village in order to build a shared community.”

Cllr Young, who was recently co-opted to replace Mr McMurray on Newry, Mourne and Down Council, said she was “very disappointed” to learn that graffiti appeared for the second time in a matter of weeks in Dundrum. 

She added: “It serves no purpose other than to increase tension within the community. 

“People want to live with their neighbours in peace and harmony. Dundrum recently held a community street festival which was a huge success and reflects what the village is all about.”

Slieve Croob councillor Alan Lewis, who assisted in removing the graffiti, said the message was “sinister” and was infiltrating the minds of young people.

“There is no place for this behaviour,” he said

“People are fed up and this is now the second incident of sectarianism in recent weeks.”