Sinn Fein councillor’s frustration as Kilkeel bridge is painted red, white and blue

Cllr Michael Rice at the bridge on the Rooney Road.Cllr Michael Rice at the bridge on the Rooney Road.
Cllr Michael Rice at the bridge on the Rooney Road.
Sinn Féin’s Mournes councillor Michael Rice has voiced his frustration over recent vandalism in Kilkeel.

Cllr Rice said that following offensive graffiti which was sprayed on the walls surrounding the outdoor gym on the Mourne Esplanade, and a bus shelter on the Knockchree Road, now the bridge on the Rooney Road heading towards the Harbour was painted red white and blue.

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He said it was “incredibly disappointing that people would try to demarcate an area of Kilkeel that is frequently used by all sides of the community”.

“The footpath down past the harbour on the Rooney Road is a scenic route that many people walk and run along through the town,” he said.

“There have been a number of local people that have contacted me over the weekend in relation this incident.

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“I know local people do not support these attempts to stir up tensions and just shows the frustration people feel towards these pointless acts of intimidation.

“Local residents and public space users do not want this kind of demarcation and it reflects a narrowmindedness that thankfully no longer will be tolerated.”

Cllr Rice added that the only purpose it serves “is an expense on taxpayers to have the paint removed”.

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He continued: “Unfortunately, this has become a frequent feature in Kilkeel with previous summers seeing bridges, like the one on the Rooney Road vandalised with graffiti and paint.

“I have contacted the Department of Infrastructure Maintenance Team about this incident, and they will be working to have it removed as soon as possible.’

“I would appeal to those involved to think about the impact their actions have on our local community and to stop defacing street infrastructure.”

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