Actions of Some Shame Us All - Beattie
Actions of Some Shame Us All - Beattie
Commenting on incidents over the 12th celebrations Doug Beattie MC MLA said:
“Over the last number of days we have seen the best of days and the worst of days. Communities have celebrated both the 11th and 12th in the spirit that it was intended. They have attempted to make it inclusive, family orientated, a genuine community celebration.
Sadly, there are those within communities and our society who have completely undermined those celebrations with their actions belittling the Twelfth activities.
The placing of flags and effigies on bonfires, the assault of ambulance staff and the burning of a car belonging to a paediatric nurse and former election candidate for Antou have shown the very worst in some people. In these cases, it is clear, a criminal offence has been committed but it has also damaged the image of the Twelfth and Unionist culture, history and identity.
Those who complain around individuals singing pro IRA songs, itself hurtful to many victims, then remain silent when this activity takes place are hypocrites. Those who stoke the fires of intolerance and hate must take responsibility for their actions and words.
As a Unionist I want to promote our shared history, culture and traditions but the actions of some shame us all”.