Council holds a minute's silence and opens book of condolence following Australian tragedy

Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) had initially turned down a DUP councillor’s request with a decision to open a book of condolence instead. However, at full council meeting the chamber fell silent following a sudden change of direction, which was only announced to elected members as the meeting began. Mayor Amanda Grehan said: “I would like to thank members of the public and councillors who reached out with suggestions on how this council could show its respects and sympathies following the tragic shooting at Bondi beach during the Hanukkah festival.

“This was a shocking and heart-breaking event that’s impact is felt deeply across our community.

“As a council we come together to express our sincere condolences and solidarity with those who lost their lives, injured and everyone affected by this devastating tragedy.

”We know that many families in our constituency have relatives in Sydney and around Bondi beach and throughout Australia.

“This horrific attack has profoundly affected so many people and it must have been deeply distressing for those who witnessed it first hand.

“On behalf of our council and community I am writing to the organisations of the festival and to the Lord Mayor of Sydney to convey our condolences and offer our full support and solidarity.

“We gathered earlier this evening to open a book of condolences, which is also available to sign online allowing our community to share words of comfort, remembrance and support.

“I now ask everyone present to join me to observe a minute’s silence to honour the victims of the tragic events on Bondi beach, to acknowledge the profound impact on families and first responders and offer our heartfelt support to the Jewish community. Would you all now stand please.”

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands that the decision to hold a minute’s silence was only announced to councillors as the meeting began, without any discussions with party leaders or advanced notice to the chamber.

The Lagan Valley floor was opened to all parties and independent members who took the opportunity to express their sympathies to the people of Sydney and condemn the actions of the attackers.

Alderman Paul Porter had brought forward the initial email suggestion to the council CEO and Mayor for a minute’s silence, which had been declined.

Speaking to the LDRS the elected member said: "I welcome the Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council agreeing to hold a minute’s silence before tonight’s full council meeting.

“This was something I formally requested on Sunday following the horrific and antisemitic killings in Australia, and I am pleased that council paused to remember those who lost their lives.

“This moment of silence is not about politics or procedure, it is about basic humanity, respect, and standing in solidarity with the Jewish community at a time of deep grief.

“The council has also opened a book of condolence, which can be signed both online and in person.

“I encourage people to sign the book of condolence and share their thoughts and prayers with our Jewish friends in our council area, in Australia, and throughout the world.”