Quigley’s anger as SDLP refugee motion falls

SDLP Coleraine Councillor Stephanie Quigley has expressed her disappointment after an SDLP motion, aimed at responding to the refugee crisis, was defeated at Tuesday’s meeting of Causeway, Coast and Glens Council.

The Coleraine woman said: “I am very angry that this effort was scuppered last night because of the introverted vision of some Councillors.

“This was a chance for the Council to reflect the great efforts of many in our community and the will of the wider public who want to see action to help Syrian refugees.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“There was robust discussion on the motion and an important issue like this demands nothing less but for DUP and Sinn Fein councillors to use a humanitarian effort as a springboard to launch a debate about the IRA is totally inexcusable.

“It is an insult to the people risking their lives and the lives of their children to escape conflict.

“It is an embarrassment that as of last night, our Council’s official response to this global crisis is to bicker about unrelated matters.

“It onus is now on those Councillors to reflect on what happened and to get on board with the rest of our people and the global community.

“While this issue may invite debate it should not be an excuse to rescore traditional divisions. This is a matter of life and death and we will not accept inaction.”