Bushmills bonfire row erupts

A FIERY debate regarding a loyalist bonfire has engulfed Moyle councillors.

Sinn Fein councillor Oliver McMullan is opposed to ratepayers money being used to put in a concrete bowl to aid the clean-up of a loyalist bonfire in Bushmills.

But Ulster Unionist councillor Willie Graham says in the long run it would be cheaper to clean up after the bonfire if there was such a concrete base.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The discussions follow recent comments about the placement of the annual ‘Eleventh Night’ bonfire in Bushmills and the way it could impact on new changing rooms at the Dundarave estate in the town.

Independent councillor Seamus Blaney said a grant could be obtained from the Housing Executive for a bonfire site.

Cllr McMullan said: “I would be very wary if we as a Council are embarking on sites for bonfires.”

He said in places beacons have been examined instead of bonfires.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

But he did not think Moyle Council should be providing a concrete base for a bonfire and have to clean it and he did not think that was the remit of the Council.

But Cllr Graham said it would be much cheaper for ratepayers to pay for cleaning up a concrete base after a bonfire than cleaning up after a bonfire built on grass.