Banbridge GAA club Clann na Banna has pledged to continue promoting inclusivity as it joined those condemning a sectarian graffiti attack at its ground.
Pro-UDA slogans were recently spray painted on the walls of the club’s Scarva Road ground.
Emma O Lochlann, the club’s chairwoman, and Gabhain Mac Cathmhaoil, secretary, said the committee of Clann na Banna wanted to put on record its ‘whole hearted condemnation’ of those who targeted the club with sectarian graffiti.
‘Clann na Banna strive to promote inclusivity within our organisation at all times and we note that one sign that was targeted, was actually in recognition of a cross community initiative to promote the Irish language,’ they said in a statement.
‘Clann na Banna will continue to promote Gaelic culture, language and games in a wholly inclusive way and will make no further comment on the incident.’
Sinn Féin Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Kevin Savage branded the attack “dreadful” as he paid tribute to the club’s major role in the community.
“Clann na Banna are an integral part of the community in Banbridge. During this pandemic, the club committee and members have been playing a major role in helping vulnerable people, delivering parcels,” he said.
“The club has also been playing a major role in the town’s Christmas Appeal, a cross community initiative with local churches and others. This attack is a real kick to the club committee and members.”
He also pointed out that the attack also had financial implications on the club.
“I’ve been trying to arrange to have this hate crime graffiti removed. No club in the country in the current climate can afford to be spending money removing stuff like this,” he said.
Picture: Sectarian graffiti at Clann na Banna’s ground. (Clann na Banna/Twitter).
