Veteran Unionist politician, Paul Berry, has praised the community spirit being shown across the district as Armagh prepare for a first All-Ireland final in 21 years.
Alderman Berry has sent his best wishes to the Armagh team as they prepare to take on Galway in Croke Park this Sunday.
“I know how passionate many of my friends, neighbours and constituents across the Cusher DEA and the county are about the final,” he said.
“I am supportive of the ABC Council’s approach in the technical support for the homecoming event and also the Financial Assistance Small Grants for celebration events in the local areas as the GAA community are a very important part of our community.
“Over recent years, the Council have had community funds for the late Queen’s Jubilee, NI Centenary, King’s Coronation and other events, so I believe we need to respect each others outlooks and backgrounds with dignity.
“In July we have had great community spirit in the county and as an Orangeman we had a fantastic 12th July in Killylea with thousands enjoying a real family day out. So I trust that the Armagh supporters also have an amazing fun and safe time.
“There is no doubt thousands of families across the Orchard County are all excited and from one neighbour to another I hope they all have a great time and special memories. Let’s show respect to each other.”
Poyntzpass – also part of the Cusher DEA – has also been held up as a beacon of cross-community relations, as it always has been.
This week it came under the spotlight for all the right reasons as union flags mixed – in unison – amongst those of the orange and white.
Without any upset, the red, white and blue is embraced, just as the orange and white is enjoyed just weeks later.
In Poyntzpass, it’s not a case of ‘both sides of the community’ but rather one community, who are enjoying the buzz of summer, whether it’s a march for William, or a march for Sam!
