Condemnation of ‘sectarian’ attack on Glenavy hall

The building and front tarmac at the Main Street premises were ‘paint bombed’ sometime overnight.

Spokesman for the Orange Order’s Glenavy District, James Tinsley, condemned those responsible for the attack which he described as ‘sectarian’.

He said: “It is downright despicable that Glenavy Orange Hall should be targeted in this way. The perpetrators have nothing to offer this society and must not be allowed to succeed in their attempt to diminish our cultural and Orange heritage.”

Mr Tinsley also expressed anger at the incident coming so soon after the successful Twelfth demonstration in Crumlin last week.

SDLP Lisburn Councillor Pat Catney also condemned the attack.

“We are attempting to move our communities forward and part of that is respect for institutions from both sides of the community” he said.

“We have seen how co-operation helped to find a peaceful resolution to the issues in Crumlin. These attacks must stop, as they do nothing but damage our own community and cost the Glenavy ratepayers.

“Anyone who has information about those responsible for the attack on Glenavy Protestant Hall should make it available to the PSNI.”

Police said inquries are at an early stage and are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch on 0845 600 8000.