12/01/2004

Republican plot gravestones damaged

A number of graves have been destroyed at the newly refurbished Republican Plot at Milltown cemetery on Sunday night.

Around 16 individual graves were destroyed in the attacks which have been condemned by Sinn Féin and the Belfast National Graves Association.

West Belfast Sinn Féin Councillor Michael Browne said: "I have spoken to a number of families who have loved ones buried in the plot and they are extremely distressed by what has happened overnight.

"The monument was recently refurbished through the voluntary work of Belfast Republicans. Republicans throughout the city will be angered at this turn of events and I am sure they will rally to the aid of the National Graves Association as they seek to rebuild the monument."

Chairperson of Belfast National Graves Association, Liam Shannon also expressed his outrage. He added: "Last night every single headstone in the Milltown Republican Plot was damaged beyond repair. In addition to this another separate grave was damaged and family effects on the various republican graves were smashed.

"The people behind this attack are beyond contempt and the community in West Belfast want no truck with them."

It is not yet known who was behind the attacks, which are likely to cost in the region of £12,000 in repairs.

(MB)

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