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Anger as ‘homophobic and anti-Irish’ graffiti daubed in underpass

'These views are not representative of the majority of people of Lurgan. Lurgan is an inclusive, welcoming town that is looking to the future'

A councillor has hit out at “spray-can warriors” after “homophobic and anti-Irish graffiti” appeared in Lurgan.

It is reported that over the weekend, the graffiti was daubed on street furniture, footpaths and the underpass along the Portadown Road.

Speaking after this new spate of vandalism came to light, Ciaran Toman, SDLP councillor for Lurgan, said: “This graffiti has caused a lot of anger and shows the complete disregard and contempt those responsible have towards the settled community in Taghnaven.

“It is reprehensive in this day and age that someone would go out of their way and erect such a sign. These views are not representative of the majority of people of Lurgan. Lurgan is an inclusive, welcoming town that is looking to the future.

“Those involved are defying their own community and diverting resources away from other services. They need to realise that this is criminal damage and can lead to consequences.

“There is a lot of great work ongoing diverting youths away from this type of behaviour, I would urge those individuals to engage with detached and community workers and take part in the diversionary activities this summer.

“What they may consider a ‘bit of fun’ costs others time and money.

“I condemn these actions entirely and I have asked for the graffiti to be removed and I urge anyone with information on this incident to contact PSNI immediately.”

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