Pagan priest ‘greatly offended’ by Islandmagee witches plaque comments

As reported in the Times, Larne Borough Council has agreed to erect a plaque in the area of the Gobbins Visitor Centre in memory of the women, who were tried and convicted over 300 years ago in what is believed to be Ireland’s last witch trial.

But TUV Alderman Jack McKee branded the plans “anti-God” and said the plaque would become a “shrine to paganism”.

In the wake of Ald McKee’s comments, Patrick Carberry, who describes himself as a traditional Celtic shamanic priest, contacted the Times to express his outrage.

“I was greatly offended by Ald McKee’s statement,” said Mr Carberry. “Religion should not be brought into politics. I believe everyone should have their own faith and respect the faith of other, and I will stand up in front of anyone and explain my faith with honour.

“It is clear from Ald McKee’s comments that he does not understand our religion, or else he would know that pagans do not have shrines.

“Also, when he said the plaque would be anti-God, which god is he referring to, as pagans worship many gods and goddesses.

“McKee also needs to remember the people who vote for him may also have their own faith, which is not the same as his. He was elected to conduct council business, not religious studies,” Mr Carberry concluded.