DUP defeat after row over Euro qualifiers

Both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have both qualified.

The DUP had proposed the NI team’s success be recognised and that during the event next year the council set up big TV screens at various locations in the borough.

However SDLP Cllr Joe Nelson, whose nephew Mark Wilson from Aghagallon is part of the Republic of Ireland squad, proposed an amendment that both teams be recognised. Sinn Fein had a similar amendment however it was decided that Sinn Fein’s Keith Haughian second Cllr Nelson’s.

The DUP would not accept the amendment however with votes from both the SDLP, Sinn Fein, some Ulster Unionists and some absentions, Cllr Nelson’s amendment to include the Republic of Ireland team was carried.

The initial DUP motion, proposed by Cllrs Phil Moutray and Paul Greenfield, congratulated the NI team and those involved on reaching the Championship and called on the council to investigate the best way to celebrate with events to include players and staff, particularly those from the borough.

Cllrs Nelson and Haughian’s amendment added that the Republic of Ireland be included.

Cllr Nelson said his rationale was that so many in the Borough follow the Republic of Ireland and his nephew, who also plays for Stoke City and is from the Borough also is part of the RoI squad.

“This amendment was seconded by Keith Haughian and it was no surprise that the amendment was not accepted by Cllr Moutray on the grounds that the celebration was unique to NI.

“DUP members voted against the motion which in fact meant that they were prepared to forego the celebrations for the NI team because the RoI team were to be included. A classic example of cutting off your nose to spite your face. This was no surprise given the track record of the DUP group in the legacy craigavon council. Unfortunately the DUP have once more signalled that any celebration of nationalist identity is not welcome in the Borough.”

Cllr Haughian said: “Sport can be a powerful tool to unite communities and while the sentiments of the original motion were correct, they failed to recognize the diverse nature of the players and the supporters in this area. Thankfully, with support of other unionist councillors, the amendment was passed.

“I would like to acknowledge this display of maturity and I hope that this can be a sign of an increased positive, civic environment which breaks from the negativity of some of the old council structures.”

Cllr Phil Moutray said the motion was to highlight the unique achievement of the NI team in qualifying.

He described the SDLP/SF amendment as ‘political posturing’. He added: “I was surprised to see numerous Ulster Unionist councillors supporting this amendment. It seeks to belittle what the national football team have achieved.

“I have no issue in congratulating the Republic of Ireland, but no more than I would congratulate England or Wales.

“The SDLP and Sinn Fein have never, to my knowledge, asked in any of the three legacy councils that we congratulate the Republic of Ireland on qualifying for major tournaments. I feel that this was amendment was an attempt to hijack and demean my original motion. Anyone wishing to recognise any achievement in council is well within their rights to do so within opening announcements or bringing forward a notice of motion of their own. The SDLP and Sinn Fein failed to do this. Comparing the achievements and adding this amendment was, in my opinion, politicising something that should not be politicised.

“I know that this latest stunt will not deter us in celebrating Northern Ireland’s feat, and we will look to further investigating ways we can support the squad next summer.”