Sinn Féin Councillor Ryan Carlin has said a decision by Unionist councillors on Lisburn & Castlereagh Council to block a working group looking at funding for St Patrick’s Day celebrations is ‘disgraceful’.

Ryan Carlin said:

“I am deeply disappointed that Unionist parties have blocked my proposal to set up a working group on the Council to look at funding for St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

“This will rightly be seen as discrimination against a section of ratepayers at a time when hundreds of thousands of pounds have been spent on events appealing only to the Unionist community.

“My proposal would have seen funding available from Lisburn & Castlereagh Council for a range of events which appeal to all sections of society.

“Some councillors laughed and sneered as one member said he would not back this proposal until 2032, I think this is indicative of the deep disrespect held by some parties on this Council towards people who have an Irish identity.

“Sinn Féin will challenge this decision and continue working to deliver funding for St Patrick’s Day celebrations and ensure that all ratepayers in Lisburn & Castlereagh are treated equally.”