27/06/2016

Orange Hall Damaged During Arson Attack In Co Armagh

An Orange Hall has been damaged in an arson attack in Co Armagh.

An oil tank at the back of Muckery Orange Hall near Derrytrasna, was deliberately set alight during the early hours of Sunday morning, causing scorch damage to the exterior of the Esky Road building.

It is the 10th reported attack on an Orange Hall so far this year.

A spokesperson from the Orange Order said: "This sickening attempt to destroy a community facility under the cover of darkness is utterly reprehensible.

"The mindless delinquents responsible for such sectarian criminality should hang their heads in shame, and must be held accountable for their actions. It is extremely fortunate that the consequences of their reckless behaviour was not much more serious.

"The lodge which meets in this Orange hall is very close-knit, with many relatives involved maintaining a family tradition within Orangeism which has spanned generations.

"Their culture and heritage should offend no-one. The perpetrators of this crime are not representative of the wider community, who overwhelmingly reject such wrongdoing."

Upper Bann Sinn Féin MLA Catherine Seeley said: "This attack represents not only an attack on the Orange Hall but an attack on the entire community in Derrytrasna. The people who carried out this reprehensible act have nothing to offer the community and do not represent the people of this area in any way.

"I have been in contact with the Lodge Secretary tonight to convey my own and my party's disgust at this incident. I wish to offer our support in whatever way possible.

"I also conveyed an offer made by Ógra Shinn Féin Upper Bann who wish to help with the clean up and repairs of the hall if possible. Incidents like this should be confronted for what they are - naked sectarianism.

"Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area should contact the PSNI"

(CD/JP)

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